One of the greatest mistakes in any business is seeking blame when a problem occurs. A true timewaster, labeling someone as the enemy with blame does nothing to solve the problem. It wrecks morale and can seriously damage relationships, as well as building up resentment among co-workers. Blame is pointless until the problem is solved. Until solved, everyone should be working toward fixing the solution, and not toward blaming a co-worker.
As an employee, I have seen countless examples of several people arguing over who did what and who is going to fix it. Early on, these experiences made me extremely uncomfortable, and at times very anxious. Now? HA! It's hilarious. I mean, where else can you watch grown, responsible, hardworking adults bicker like children on the playground fighting over a swing?
It also makes the blamers look weak, especially if those laying blame are of management or even worse, ownership. Think about it- if you are a part of a fortune 500 company and suddenly your CEO comes down from their office and starts screaming because they noticed a problem? Worse yet, they didn't even come up with a solution, nor did they try to assemble the troops to try and solve the issue. It shows weak leadership, poor problem solving skills, and cruelty. Would you be motivated to help this person? I hope not.
That being said, if there truly is blame to place, place it later. In a private meeting, and discipline the person appropriately, IN PRIVATE. Berating and screaming at an individual that made a mistake does nothing. It does not make the aggressor look good, powerful, or intelligent. It does not make the employee being attacked more willing to work, or to even continue to work.
Try this. The next time crap hits the fan at your place of business and you're in the position to blame someone? Don't. Instead, come up with a solution, and then rally your fellow employees and superiors around you to help solve it. Then, leave the discipline and resulting discussion for later, and for god's sake, IN PRIVATE.
Be kind, get stuff done. Period.
Showing posts with label management. Show all posts
Showing posts with label management. Show all posts
Monday, May 11, 2015
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Family- Blood is Thicker than Profits
Over the course of my short time here on Earth, I have had a multitude of jobs. Why is this important? Well, it's because there is no loyalty, no determination, no strength better than the powerful dynamic of a healthy, family owned and operated business. Period.
I know what you're thinking! Family owned and operated business aren't always healthy. Sometimes, they are quite the opposite, and you are absolutely right. No business is safe from the touch of corruption, negativity, or even hatred. It has been said (by who I don't remember) that family can hurt you the most out of anyone on this planet. And that, sadly, is also true. But for a second, let's pretend we're not all jaded and cynical.
Family business is so much more than just passing down a lineage, or an ownership title. When hardships occur, you aren't alone in weathering them. When triumph occurs, you are not alone when celebrating them. When you feel like you can't trust anyone, well guess what? You can trust in family. And that trust is what makes it all work.
My family and I fight when it comes to the business. Of course we do! I can't imagine it any other way for anyone else either. But the key is that we are always looking out for each other- this foundation of trust and honesty helps drive the business forward even in the face of horrific economic hardship. Even bankruptcy. This unique strength is something no other business can achieve. It is impossible, no matter how close, or friendly, or dedicated a workforce is.
Money becomes something to help the business opposed to a point of contention. Petty things come up, sure- but they are always put aside in the name of the business. In the name of its future, or even the family's future.
One thing I have never experienced in any job was the feeling of being part of a team. Often, I would be on the outside of cliques that would form internally due to the silly garbage of office politics. I also found that my seriousness about any given job was not shared, or even ridiculed. I am a firm believer that the phrase, "That's not my job!" shouldn't exist, and that everyone working together in any given job should be doing just that: actually working together! For the first time in my life, in my career, I can say that I am part of a team.
And it's a team that I believe in. Do you believe in your team?
I know what you're thinking! Family owned and operated business aren't always healthy. Sometimes, they are quite the opposite, and you are absolutely right. No business is safe from the touch of corruption, negativity, or even hatred. It has been said (by who I don't remember) that family can hurt you the most out of anyone on this planet. And that, sadly, is also true. But for a second, let's pretend we're not all jaded and cynical.
Family business is so much more than just passing down a lineage, or an ownership title. When hardships occur, you aren't alone in weathering them. When triumph occurs, you are not alone when celebrating them. When you feel like you can't trust anyone, well guess what? You can trust in family. And that trust is what makes it all work.
My family and I fight when it comes to the business. Of course we do! I can't imagine it any other way for anyone else either. But the key is that we are always looking out for each other- this foundation of trust and honesty helps drive the business forward even in the face of horrific economic hardship. Even bankruptcy. This unique strength is something no other business can achieve. It is impossible, no matter how close, or friendly, or dedicated a workforce is.
Money becomes something to help the business opposed to a point of contention. Petty things come up, sure- but they are always put aside in the name of the business. In the name of its future, or even the family's future.
One thing I have never experienced in any job was the feeling of being part of a team. Often, I would be on the outside of cliques that would form internally due to the silly garbage of office politics. I also found that my seriousness about any given job was not shared, or even ridiculed. I am a firm believer that the phrase, "That's not my job!" shouldn't exist, and that everyone working together in any given job should be doing just that: actually working together! For the first time in my life, in my career, I can say that I am part of a team.
And it's a team that I believe in. Do you believe in your team?
Friday, April 4, 2014
Dealing with Theft in the Workplace
Money causes trouble. Bottom line. When money is involved, mark my words- everyone will have their eye on the bottom line. That being said, some individuals may not approve of their bottom line and search for other...opportunities in spite of morality or decency.
Theft occurs in the workplace. Where there are humans, there are thieves and heroes, basically. But as a manager, theft means something completely different, and it is a scary notion to entertain. I mean, think about it: someone you hired went into a house, took money (or whatever), and then left without a second word. Don't just limit this to a cleaning business, either. If you are an owner/manager, one of the things on your mind should be loss prevention.
An associate of mine runs a business. Runs it well! Unfortunately, he had a bad run with a few hiring websites, and he got some people that were less than ideal. A few would steal from the company and the customers, along with poor attitude and a whole host of other things. And he could have avoided the madness and frustration of a resolving the matter in if he knew how to deal with theft better.
The idea is not solving the problem after it has begun- it's solving the problem before it happens. I did some research and found good information in this article detailing the ways you can keep theft nonexistent, or minimal.But tips and tricks aside, a mindset is what you need more than anything.
Going back to my associate, he not only did his own personal investigation, but certain customers wished to have the police involved, and he had to cooperate. He also lost these customers and will never get them back due to the trust lost. He had to find good people (although now he's gunshy) to replace the bad apples, and he had to get his insurance company involved to help cover the value of any stolen items.
My bottom line is this. Money is useful. It is everywhere, and it dictates much. So knowing that, keep two things in your mind. One- never be satisfied with the appearance of "everything is okay", and Two- know who you are hiring first because the money you might save in not doing a background check will cost you much, much more in the end. Just ask my associate!
Theft occurs in the workplace. Where there are humans, there are thieves and heroes, basically. But as a manager, theft means something completely different, and it is a scary notion to entertain. I mean, think about it: someone you hired went into a house, took money (or whatever), and then left without a second word. Don't just limit this to a cleaning business, either. If you are an owner/manager, one of the things on your mind should be loss prevention.
An associate of mine runs a business. Runs it well! Unfortunately, he had a bad run with a few hiring websites, and he got some people that were less than ideal. A few would steal from the company and the customers, along with poor attitude and a whole host of other things. And he could have avoided the madness and frustration of a resolving the matter in if he knew how to deal with theft better.
The idea is not solving the problem after it has begun- it's solving the problem before it happens. I did some research and found good information in this article detailing the ways you can keep theft nonexistent, or minimal.But tips and tricks aside, a mindset is what you need more than anything.
Going back to my associate, he not only did his own personal investigation, but certain customers wished to have the police involved, and he had to cooperate. He also lost these customers and will never get them back due to the trust lost. He had to find good people (although now he's gunshy) to replace the bad apples, and he had to get his insurance company involved to help cover the value of any stolen items.
My bottom line is this. Money is useful. It is everywhere, and it dictates much. So knowing that, keep two things in your mind. One- never be satisfied with the appearance of "everything is okay", and Two- know who you are hiring first because the money you might save in not doing a background check will cost you much, much more in the end. Just ask my associate!
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Point the Finger at Yourself
Across my time in the working world, I've noticed something. There are leaders, and then there are bosses. And the difference is very simple. Leaders point the finger at themselves when there are problems in the business, and bosses blame everyone else. What do I mean?
I've worked under, and with, many different people all on different parts of the personality spectrum. I've dealt with individuals that are centered merely on themselves, saying that they "work harder than anyone here". I've worked with people that do nothing but complain, and often? They are complaining about everyone else. If they don't complete a task, they often have a laundry list of outside excuses that involve everyone except...guess. Who.
Themselves.
Leaders and bosses differ because leaders want to improve, learn, and uh, LEAD. Bosses do just that- be bossy. Superfluous delegation, martyrism, shifting the blame. Leaders see a problem and think about how they can fix it, and how they can prevent it from happening again. Bosses see a problem and then says, "not my job!" and then assign someone below them to take care of the situation.
Business owners all over the world should all strive to be leaders. Someone workers and managerial staff can look to for answers, wisdom, and guidance. And all too often, business owners and other executive staff point the finger at everyone else but...
Themselves.
See a pattern? If something is wrong in your business, take some damn initiative and fix it. Matter of fact, why don't you get started right now? I know I will.
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Reflections and Motivations
Reflection on a year that's come to pass can be a difficult thing, but it always should be done in business. Motivation is a constant, however, that needs to be maintained like any other useful tool. Using both together makes for a good plan that anyone can be empowered by.
Work is hard, man. It is. No matter what you're doing, no matter how much you love it, work is difficult. And there are many times during the year when we work that we would have liked to do something differently.
Mistakes are invaluable. When we look back on what we've done incorrectly, we typically learn from these situations and come out much wiser on the other side. Not everyone does this, nor does every business. At the end of a year, I like to reflect on good and bad decisions made during the year, not just in business! But for myself as well. I mean, you are working at your job, so your own personal well being and growth is important, too.
So that's why I make a very simple New Year's resolution. Every year it's the same thing, it's the same broad goal that can be easily measured by any means I wish. My resolution? "Be a better person." And let's strip morality, personal flaws, habits. Let's strip that all away and just focus on business. When you work, if you're miserable for whatever reason, your work suffers. As you come to terms with your flaws, you learn how to use what you're good at much better.
Today is New Year's Eve, so I'll keep this short. Party hard, party safe, work harder, and evolve. Evolve as a person, and your business will follow.
Have a happy, healthy New Year, and don't hate yourself for your mistakes. Learn from them!
Work is hard, man. It is. No matter what you're doing, no matter how much you love it, work is difficult. And there are many times during the year when we work that we would have liked to do something differently.
Mistakes are invaluable. When we look back on what we've done incorrectly, we typically learn from these situations and come out much wiser on the other side. Not everyone does this, nor does every business. At the end of a year, I like to reflect on good and bad decisions made during the year, not just in business! But for myself as well. I mean, you are working at your job, so your own personal well being and growth is important, too.
So that's why I make a very simple New Year's resolution. Every year it's the same thing, it's the same broad goal that can be easily measured by any means I wish. My resolution? "Be a better person." And let's strip morality, personal flaws, habits. Let's strip that all away and just focus on business. When you work, if you're miserable for whatever reason, your work suffers. As you come to terms with your flaws, you learn how to use what you're good at much better.
Today is New Year's Eve, so I'll keep this short. Party hard, party safe, work harder, and evolve. Evolve as a person, and your business will follow.
Have a happy, healthy New Year, and don't hate yourself for your mistakes. Learn from them!
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Change in Business- Change your Business
Change is good. Overall, anyway. I've noticed that a simple shift of tactics, or a different piece of equipment, or even a new employee, can breathe new life into a business that is stagnating. Here's the thing though- your business is always stagnating if you aren't helping it evolve.
There is no one way to do anything. As life continues and so does business, shades of grey are being added to the spectrum or reality every day. Forgive the metaphorical side note, but it's true! Many businesses that I have worked at before coming to Budget were perpetually stuck. Just stuck in their own ways and habits so deeply, that they were in complete denial when the proof of such errors slapped them in the face.
Business, like anything, can get really boring if nothing is going on. And I don't mean cash transactions, or store activity. What you sell, whether it's a product or a service, is merely a tiny fraction of your total business. The people you employ, the business practices you enforce, the brand of coffee you serve in the break room. It's all part of one entity- it's the most life an intangible concept like "a business" can achieve.
Change what's not broken. Fix what is. Constantly evolve.
Change can be scary, I know. Many people out there are resistant or downright hostile towards the concept of change, but it is merely a base fear triggered by the encounter of something new. Humans fear the unknown, but they are eager to accept changes that make their life better. In that same vein, your employees and yourself are good metrics for new things that you are trying out in business. See how the employees respond. See how you respond. Change is good, but it isn't always the best option.
Don't be afraid to look at your current systems, employees, and equipment with an eye on the future. Is what you are doing working? Don't blame the economy. It could very well be you. And this brings me to my main point. If I can't sell you on change now, I won't ever.
Sometimes, carrying on the same way you have always done can get you in trouble. Especially if you are in a situation where you are trying to do the same old same old to fix a problem that requires a different touch. That fear of change might have saved some businesses here and there. Maybe a change you are unwilling to make is finally accepting help or guidance from others. It's a common fear and a matter of pride that will do nothing but hold you back.
If you are reluctant about changing your business up here and there, start with your own personal life. Do something different, get coffee from a different shop, eat an unusual breakfast, do something different! The more we settle in our ways, the more our business suffers. You work is a reflection of yourself- make sure you recognize your face in the mirror.
There is no one way to do anything. As life continues and so does business, shades of grey are being added to the spectrum or reality every day. Forgive the metaphorical side note, but it's true! Many businesses that I have worked at before coming to Budget were perpetually stuck. Just stuck in their own ways and habits so deeply, that they were in complete denial when the proof of such errors slapped them in the face.
Business, like anything, can get really boring if nothing is going on. And I don't mean cash transactions, or store activity. What you sell, whether it's a product or a service, is merely a tiny fraction of your total business. The people you employ, the business practices you enforce, the brand of coffee you serve in the break room. It's all part of one entity- it's the most life an intangible concept like "a business" can achieve.
Change what's not broken. Fix what is. Constantly evolve.
Change can be scary, I know. Many people out there are resistant or downright hostile towards the concept of change, but it is merely a base fear triggered by the encounter of something new. Humans fear the unknown, but they are eager to accept changes that make their life better. In that same vein, your employees and yourself are good metrics for new things that you are trying out in business. See how the employees respond. See how you respond. Change is good, but it isn't always the best option.
Don't be afraid to look at your current systems, employees, and equipment with an eye on the future. Is what you are doing working? Don't blame the economy. It could very well be you. And this brings me to my main point. If I can't sell you on change now, I won't ever.
Sometimes, carrying on the same way you have always done can get you in trouble. Especially if you are in a situation where you are trying to do the same old same old to fix a problem that requires a different touch. That fear of change might have saved some businesses here and there. Maybe a change you are unwilling to make is finally accepting help or guidance from others. It's a common fear and a matter of pride that will do nothing but hold you back.
If you are reluctant about changing your business up here and there, start with your own personal life. Do something different, get coffee from a different shop, eat an unusual breakfast, do something different! The more we settle in our ways, the more our business suffers. You work is a reflection of yourself- make sure you recognize your face in the mirror.
Thursday, July 25, 2013
There is no "Stop"
Business is an ongoing coagulation of success, and struggle. We formulate plans, execute them, record the results, and then base our future decisions on those results. Business is routine. Business is a cycle. It is not for those who give up easily. It is not for those who can't take criticism. It's tough.
But why is that such a discouragement?
Plenty of things in life are difficult. But every day people accomplish tasks, get past obstacles, and find their own path to their unique brand of success or happiness. Maybe happiness is your success. However it is measured, one thing is certain for everyone sooner or later. Anything worth having can only be truly attained and appreciated through hard work. Business is no different, and when things get difficult, people show their true colors in the workplace.
There are people around you that will give up when the going gets tough. They'll throw their hands up and just walk out. They don't care about the task, their responsibilities, or their jobs in general. You'll also get people that will muscle through the hard times, determined to beat the intangible wall that holds them back. And finally, you'll find those who are relentless. Relentless in carrying out their tasks, relentless in their determination. Those are often the people that can stand to be in business for themselves.
The way things are right now weed out anyone who is not willing to survive. Is it right? No. Is it fair? Hell no. But unfortunately, it is the cold and terrible truth. Those who survive in business now are special. They are relentless.
Why do I keep saying relentless? Isn't that a negative adjective? Sure! But just like being cunning, the meaning of the word "relentless" isn't all bad. The tenacity to continue even when nothing matters anymore, when there is nothing to go back to, when all your energy is gone and all you have is time and your own willpower, when all you have. Is something to prove only to yourself. That's what being relentless means in business. Combine this with cunning, and you'll turn yourself into a survivor.
There are times when I want to give up, sure. Work is hard. Especially if you're in business for yourself, so I can understand the need to escape, to just stop caring. Hell, no-one is expecting you to hold out forever. Even when there isn't anyone around to judge you, you are around. When the thought of giving up becomes repulsive, guess what? You've become relentless.
There is no stop in business. Stopping means failure. So if you want to succeed, you must reach within yourself. And I don't mean in a sappy after school special kinda way. No, you must reach inside yourself and bypass your ego, your ideas, you concepts, your notions, and find that one thing that won't let you give up, the irrefutable truth that gives you the power to move past all the negative in your life, driving you towards success. That is what it means to be relentless. When the only thing stopping you from moving forward, is you. When the only person you have to answer to is you. And when you're finally willing not to let yourself down? You're ready to be a business owner.
What are you made of?
But why is that such a discouragement?
Plenty of things in life are difficult. But every day people accomplish tasks, get past obstacles, and find their own path to their unique brand of success or happiness. Maybe happiness is your success. However it is measured, one thing is certain for everyone sooner or later. Anything worth having can only be truly attained and appreciated through hard work. Business is no different, and when things get difficult, people show their true colors in the workplace.
There are people around you that will give up when the going gets tough. They'll throw their hands up and just walk out. They don't care about the task, their responsibilities, or their jobs in general. You'll also get people that will muscle through the hard times, determined to beat the intangible wall that holds them back. And finally, you'll find those who are relentless. Relentless in carrying out their tasks, relentless in their determination. Those are often the people that can stand to be in business for themselves.
The way things are right now weed out anyone who is not willing to survive. Is it right? No. Is it fair? Hell no. But unfortunately, it is the cold and terrible truth. Those who survive in business now are special. They are relentless.
Why do I keep saying relentless? Isn't that a negative adjective? Sure! But just like being cunning, the meaning of the word "relentless" isn't all bad. The tenacity to continue even when nothing matters anymore, when there is nothing to go back to, when all your energy is gone and all you have is time and your own willpower, when all you have. Is something to prove only to yourself. That's what being relentless means in business. Combine this with cunning, and you'll turn yourself into a survivor.
There are times when I want to give up, sure. Work is hard. Especially if you're in business for yourself, so I can understand the need to escape, to just stop caring. Hell, no-one is expecting you to hold out forever. Even when there isn't anyone around to judge you, you are around. When the thought of giving up becomes repulsive, guess what? You've become relentless.
There is no stop in business. Stopping means failure. So if you want to succeed, you must reach within yourself. And I don't mean in a sappy after school special kinda way. No, you must reach inside yourself and bypass your ego, your ideas, you concepts, your notions, and find that one thing that won't let you give up, the irrefutable truth that gives you the power to move past all the negative in your life, driving you towards success. That is what it means to be relentless. When the only thing stopping you from moving forward, is you. When the only person you have to answer to is you. And when you're finally willing not to let yourself down? You're ready to be a business owner.
What are you made of?
Monday, July 15, 2013
Positvity in Business
Negative thoughts and outlooks are poisonous.
Many people like to hide under the guise of "being realistic." Sometimes, a situation is hopelessly screwed, true. But even in the worse calamities, one must find silver linings to keep pushing through. Determination, perseverance, and positivity. Three essential qualities that are indicative of a healthy mind to do good business.
Being realistic isn't always grim, like most people say. Especially in business. It is rare when you can't go back and mend the broken parts of your occupation, whether you're an owner, or an employee. There are many stark realities in this world, harsh truths, and difficult trials. But what's important is that we push through the bad stuff and focus on the good- where your business is headed, and how successful it will be.
Depression, anger, anxiety, and a whole host of other unpleasant feelings can cloud even the clearest mind. An owner that is may have surgical execution of goals and profit lines can crumble in the face of a big gamble, or failure. Failure isn't something to stay upset about. No-one likes to fail. But it's how we see failure that drags us down.
I've worked in many hostile situations at various jobs. Fortunately, the one I am currently doing is an exception to this type of experience, but I digress. I have worked many different jobs in my short span of life on this rock, and I can tell you, the negative, bitter people drag everyone down to their level so they can all share in the misery. And lemmie tell ya. If you are easily influenced by the moods of others like I am, all of a sudden you can find yourself bitchin' and moanin' with the worst of em'. Like I did.
Business is tough. Whether your raking in billions, or just clearing your first million in annual sales, business is a grueling, draining experience. But. It doesn't have to be. Work is hard. It's supposed to be hard- I mean come on. It wouldn't be called work if it was easy. But things don't have to be easy to be positive.
If you plan on having any success in your life, taciturn business practices and a grumpy personality will sink you. No matter what happens, no matter how bad things get, you must always stay positive in the end. If you start taking business too seriously, it will consume you alive, and leave behind nothing.
Stay happy. Stay positive. Make money.
Now go be awesome.
Many people like to hide under the guise of "being realistic." Sometimes, a situation is hopelessly screwed, true. But even in the worse calamities, one must find silver linings to keep pushing through. Determination, perseverance, and positivity. Three essential qualities that are indicative of a healthy mind to do good business.
Being realistic isn't always grim, like most people say. Especially in business. It is rare when you can't go back and mend the broken parts of your occupation, whether you're an owner, or an employee. There are many stark realities in this world, harsh truths, and difficult trials. But what's important is that we push through the bad stuff and focus on the good- where your business is headed, and how successful it will be.
Depression, anger, anxiety, and a whole host of other unpleasant feelings can cloud even the clearest mind. An owner that is may have surgical execution of goals and profit lines can crumble in the face of a big gamble, or failure. Failure isn't something to stay upset about. No-one likes to fail. But it's how we see failure that drags us down.
I've worked in many hostile situations at various jobs. Fortunately, the one I am currently doing is an exception to this type of experience, but I digress. I have worked many different jobs in my short span of life on this rock, and I can tell you, the negative, bitter people drag everyone down to their level so they can all share in the misery. And lemmie tell ya. If you are easily influenced by the moods of others like I am, all of a sudden you can find yourself bitchin' and moanin' with the worst of em'. Like I did.
Business is tough. Whether your raking in billions, or just clearing your first million in annual sales, business is a grueling, draining experience. But. It doesn't have to be. Work is hard. It's supposed to be hard- I mean come on. It wouldn't be called work if it was easy. But things don't have to be easy to be positive.
If you plan on having any success in your life, taciturn business practices and a grumpy personality will sink you. No matter what happens, no matter how bad things get, you must always stay positive in the end. If you start taking business too seriously, it will consume you alive, and leave behind nothing.
Stay happy. Stay positive. Make money.
Now go be awesome.
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Happy Coexistence With your Job
Work is tough.
Many people all around the world do not like their jobs. Hell, I found a blogger that wrote an entry on how to deal with toxic occupations! Some tolerate, some enjoy, and everything in-between. Certain individuals may see work as a means to an end, like putting food on the table, or providing for a family. But here's a concept that I introduce to you:
What if we tried to live with our jobs, opposed to just going to them? Accepted work opposed to dread it? There is freedom in simply letting go, you know. Work is work and that is that, but what if we changed perspective a little bit, and saw our jobs in a new light?
That's what I'm trying to do. Now, I'm not unhappy at my job. No I am not. But there are times when work gets to me, as I am sure it all gets to you. And sometimes, I carry with me an anchor of dread when I have to return to work on Monday after a nice weekend. But is this the right thing to do? Better yet, healthy thing to do? I don't think so.
A different perspective on work can change many things. Sometimes, it reveals that there are aspects of your job that you enjoy that you didn't even know about! And in the other extreme, sometimes a different perspective can let you see that it's time to move on. There are all parts of simply accepting that work is work, and we must do it to survive.
Many people think that they have no choice but to stay at a job that they despise. This isn't true. They've accepted the "fact" that they can't do anything else but sit there and be miserable. There are even coping mechanisms that can be used to help deal with a job that someone may hate. But is this true coexistence? Or is it just a band-aid?
Job dissatisfaction is very common among Americans. And some choose to cope with the stress of bad professional situations in a variety of ways, not all of them healthy. So what would you rather do? Cope, or accept?
Acceptance is a strange thing, you know. Typically, it has a positive connotation, implying that one is content with one's situation, and is ready to rest of their laurels. But this isn't always the case. We accept many things all the time! Like...being in traffic, or being sick, or getting a parking ticket. We accept that these things have happened, and then we decide how we want to deal with them. So...don't cope. Accept!
I hate it when people say, "I don't have a choice," or when they say it to me: "you don't have a choice." This is completely untrue. We have free reign to do whatever we want, whenever we want. The only thing that holds us back is how a situation will turn out for us. You can hate your job. You can hate it with all your heart, and you can believe that you have no alternatives. But is that really true? I don't think it is.
You are a human (hopefully). You have a mind, you have a heart (gag me) and you have the will to focus everything you have into anything you want. So with all that power at your disposal...
Are you really gonna just sit there and be unhappy?
Many people all around the world do not like their jobs. Hell, I found a blogger that wrote an entry on how to deal with toxic occupations! Some tolerate, some enjoy, and everything in-between. Certain individuals may see work as a means to an end, like putting food on the table, or providing for a family. But here's a concept that I introduce to you:
What if we tried to live with our jobs, opposed to just going to them? Accepted work opposed to dread it? There is freedom in simply letting go, you know. Work is work and that is that, but what if we changed perspective a little bit, and saw our jobs in a new light?
 |
| Hate is an Ugly Thing (Source) |
That's what I'm trying to do. Now, I'm not unhappy at my job. No I am not. But there are times when work gets to me, as I am sure it all gets to you. And sometimes, I carry with me an anchor of dread when I have to return to work on Monday after a nice weekend. But is this the right thing to do? Better yet, healthy thing to do? I don't think so.
Acceptance comes in many shades.
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| We could all stand to be a little more Zen. (Source) |
Many people think that they have no choice but to stay at a job that they despise. This isn't true. They've accepted the "fact" that they can't do anything else but sit there and be miserable. There are even coping mechanisms that can be used to help deal with a job that someone may hate. But is this true coexistence? Or is it just a band-aid?
Job dissatisfaction is very common among Americans. And some choose to cope with the stress of bad professional situations in a variety of ways, not all of them healthy. So what would you rather do? Cope, or accept?
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| Above: Never the Answer to a Problem (Source) |
Acceptance is a strange thing, you know. Typically, it has a positive connotation, implying that one is content with one's situation, and is ready to rest of their laurels. But this isn't always the case. We accept many things all the time! Like...being in traffic, or being sick, or getting a parking ticket. We accept that these things have happened, and then we decide how we want to deal with them. So...don't cope. Accept!
I hate it when people say, "I don't have a choice," or when they say it to me: "you don't have a choice." This is completely untrue. We have free reign to do whatever we want, whenever we want. The only thing that holds us back is how a situation will turn out for us. You can hate your job. You can hate it with all your heart, and you can believe that you have no alternatives. But is that really true? I don't think it is.
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| You ALWAYS Have a Choice (Source) |
You are a human (hopefully). You have a mind, you have a heart (gag me) and you have the will to focus everything you have into anything you want. So with all that power at your disposal...
Are you really gonna just sit there and be unhappy?
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Praise in the Workplace- Yes It's Important
Morale is the intangible asset that makes a business flow smoothly. Of course, money, resources, equipment and the like are all important too, but take a second to consider this. What is a company without its people? And I mean everyone, from the hourly worker in the trenches to the President/CEO in the branch office 1000 miles away. Sure, you can have employees, and sure they'll work for you. But how much will they want to work for you? How much will they take before they just give up?
Praise, attention, a simple thank you, good job, etc are absolutely invaluable to worker performance. I know because when I'm praised for doing a job well done, or being there when no-one else could be, I want to work harder! I want to get better, work harder, and really give it my all. Think this is all a load of new-age, touchy-feely, progressive crap? Read on.
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| Don't be that guy. Source |
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| Feeling...unappreciated? Source |
| For those of you that just want the cold, hard facts, here ya go: THE FACTS. It's dry, but informative. I found myself getting bored, so I looked at another link instead. This one was more cut to the chase- it outlines the feelings and desires of an average employee, and basically tells you (the reader) what you may be doing to ruin their productivity and destroy morale all around the office. No matter what, overall employee morale comes down to management. Of course, there are some employees that don't want to do anything, or will simply have a bad attitude no matter what. But these people are the exceptions, opposed to the standard. On the other hand, too much praise can be bad as well. In another article I found, praising employees too much can cause a number of adverse outcomes that hurt the productivity of the worker, and the company. According to the article, too much praise can inflate egos rather than encourage independence and confidence. The praise can also become empty and meaningless, more annoying than encouraging I would suspect.
Giving praise is something that should come naturally, I think, and isn't a scripted event, or a policy in some in the tome that is an employee handbook. I found this article too, addressing some of the common myths, or misconceptions about praise. Evidently, some people just don't know how to tell others that they're doing a good job. And that's okay. Not everyone is demonstrative, but having that in mind, I want to discuss my final point. Motivation is personal. A person cannot be motivated to do something well. They can be forced, intimidated, asked, but motivation is something that comes from within. Real, honest to goodness praise strengthens, and inspires motivation. Period.
So if you deem yourself not as the touchy feely type, that's fine! Sometimes, all employees (including myself) are looking for is a "thank you" when a report get done early, or a "good job!" when they've really worked hard and tried to make their work mean something. You don't have to give them a hug or read em' a poem, you know. A simple thank you usually does the trick. |
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
2013 Planning and Beyond
Happy New Years!
2012 was...not pretty for many people. It was a hard year for us all, actually, one way or another. But what is it about a new year that renews drive and passion? I don't know. But I intend to find out. Business is a routine. Of course there are exceptions, but there is a basic formula that most legitmate business follow. Provide Product/Service, Consumer Buys, You get Paid. Yes, this is easy. But there are a lot of tiny little ins and outs that I've never noticed before until I started working at Budget.
Routine is something we should all have. This routine helps us manage our lives and our business. It's a foundation, not a step by step guide. What's my point? Planning. Did yopu have a rough year? Are there things you want to change? Why keep it as a New Year's Resolution? Call it a business goal.
Mine is to be more organized. To have protocols, to be more observant. New Years Resolutions often get ignored because there are set as a goal to work towards. They're treat like an empty promise to ourselves. Don't let it be an empty promise. Apply it in your life. Make a goal, and follow it as you achieve and evolve.
Easier said than done. And no, I don't have a self help book that I'm going to plug and ask you to buy, either. All I'm asking is for you not to treat your resolution like an empty promise. Treat it like a goal you must obtain without fail. See how that works for you.
Hope you're enjoying the new year so far!
2012 was...not pretty for many people. It was a hard year for us all, actually, one way or another. But what is it about a new year that renews drive and passion? I don't know. But I intend to find out. Business is a routine. Of course there are exceptions, but there is a basic formula that most legitmate business follow. Provide Product/Service, Consumer Buys, You get Paid. Yes, this is easy. But there are a lot of tiny little ins and outs that I've never noticed before until I started working at Budget.
Routine is something we should all have. This routine helps us manage our lives and our business. It's a foundation, not a step by step guide. What's my point? Planning. Did yopu have a rough year? Are there things you want to change? Why keep it as a New Year's Resolution? Call it a business goal.
Mine is to be more organized. To have protocols, to be more observant. New Years Resolutions often get ignored because there are set as a goal to work towards. They're treat like an empty promise to ourselves. Don't let it be an empty promise. Apply it in your life. Make a goal, and follow it as you achieve and evolve.
Easier said than done. And no, I don't have a self help book that I'm going to plug and ask you to buy, either. All I'm asking is for you not to treat your resolution like an empty promise. Treat it like a goal you must obtain without fail. See how that works for you.
Hope you're enjoying the new year so far!
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Responsibility
As I become more and more comfortable with my original position here at Budget, I found myself getting bored. Almost as if he knew, my father cued in and told me I need to broaden my scope and start looking at the business from more of an owner's perspective rather than just a manager. I must say I've been re-challenged, re-motivated, and happy to start working on a new aspect of myself.
Getting older has taught me something. Motivations change. Dramatically. What used to get me going ten years ago seems...trivial. I know it sounds stupid. Like, "well duh you blogging moron", but when it hasn't happened to you yet, it's really a shocking moment. Talk about an epiphany.
Not too long ago, I shuddered to think of owning my own business. All the responsibility, problems, bills, taxes, forms, and a whole crappy cornucopia of other terrible things. But after being in the working world for awhile and seen what a good boss and a bad boss is, I can't picture myself working any other way.
I am going to take this business to place it's never been. Here's hopin' that it's a good one.
Getting older has taught me something. Motivations change. Dramatically. What used to get me going ten years ago seems...trivial. I know it sounds stupid. Like, "well duh you blogging moron", but when it hasn't happened to you yet, it's really a shocking moment. Talk about an epiphany.
Not too long ago, I shuddered to think of owning my own business. All the responsibility, problems, bills, taxes, forms, and a whole crappy cornucopia of other terrible things. But after being in the working world for awhile and seen what a good boss and a bad boss is, I can't picture myself working any other way.
I am going to take this business to place it's never been. Here's hopin' that it's a good one.
Monday, November 5, 2012
So Tired and Tried
Things are rough in this area. Sandy destroyed lives. And what she didn't destroy, she altered uncontrollably. Time are dire right now. At least from where I'm standing, but does that really matter? I can't tell anymore. I'm not entirely sure if I can keep motivation solely through positive thinking and optimism. I think in times of great struggle, we must dig even deeper within ourselves and hold on to something that we don't know is there.
Give it whatever name you want. Soul, religion, willpower, grit, determination, guts, et cetera. Whatever that little extra is, many people, inside and outside of Sandy's reach, must dig deep and trudge on in a world that can be cruel and merciless. Truth is, I'm tired this week. Between Sandy and a whole host of other garbage, I'm starting to reach the end of my rope. But that's okay. Cuz there's a big knot at the end of it, and that's where I'm going to hold on to. What I am going to hold on to.
What's your metaphorical knot? Hope? Love? Anger? Stubbornness?
Give it whatever name you want. Soul, religion, willpower, grit, determination, guts, et cetera. Whatever that little extra is, many people, inside and outside of Sandy's reach, must dig deep and trudge on in a world that can be cruel and merciless. Truth is, I'm tired this week. Between Sandy and a whole host of other garbage, I'm starting to reach the end of my rope. But that's okay. Cuz there's a big knot at the end of it, and that's where I'm going to hold on to. What I am going to hold on to.
What's your metaphorical knot? Hope? Love? Anger? Stubbornness?
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Frustration and Futility in the Workplace
Work is stressful. No matter how much you love your job, it will stress you out eventually. Even simple things, like losing a pen, or losing an important file. Having to reload the printer when its out of paper. We also come in contact with toxic people. Customers, co-workers, superiors. But work is work, right?
Wrong.
Work may be hard, it may be stressful, hell. Sometimes it may suck. But that doesn't mean that your feelings and thoughts don't matter. We all have difficult lives. One way or another, there is a struggle out there for everyone, but does that mean we should treat our very lives as a struggle?
Do you have to love your job? No. But should you try and find one that you do love? Of course. Why even live if you can't even try?
Wrong.
Work may be hard, it may be stressful, hell. Sometimes it may suck. But that doesn't mean that your feelings and thoughts don't matter. We all have difficult lives. One way or another, there is a struggle out there for everyone, but does that mean we should treat our very lives as a struggle?
Do you have to love your job? No. But should you try and find one that you do love? Of course. Why even live if you can't even try?
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Pushing Limits
Business owners, managers, workers. A lot of us will push ourselves to the point where we can't even see straight anymore. One more shift. One more sale. One more errand. One more this, that, and the other thing. Always trying to get ahead, always trying to get in just a lil' bit more time than the other guy. Now, mostly? I thought that I had a pretty good bead on things. I would push myself, sure. We all must push in order to find out how hard the world will push back. And I thought that I knew my limits.
I did not.
Instead, I pushed past them. Which is good, yes. We should always try and be a little bit better than we were yesterday. But I realized that when you push too hard, you do more harm than good. The last three weeks have been very busy for me. I had a grueling martial arts proficiency test (I passed!), and then a lot of extra physical jobs like carpet cleanings, and the like. I would work through weekends, or take only one day off, and I would push myself further and further mentally and physically. I pushed too hard, and now I'm sick.
Yeah, I got a cold n' shit. Awesome, right? I worked out only ONCE last week, and none this week. I've been tired at work, tired at home, and now I'm sick. Because I pushed myself too. Hard.
This entry is a cautionary one. Work hard. Push yourself. Never settle, never be in your comfort zone for too long. Work baby, work. But for the love of god, don't forget to slow down and just...eat an ice cream cone with your girl/boyfriend. Watch a stupid comedy movie rife with crude humor and gratuitous nudity. Laugh with a friend over a few shots and a brew. HAVE FUN!
If you're always pushing yourself, eventually? You'll be so far past your limit that you'll have to backtrack. And then? All that hard work was for nothing.
I did not.
Instead, I pushed past them. Which is good, yes. We should always try and be a little bit better than we were yesterday. But I realized that when you push too hard, you do more harm than good. The last three weeks have been very busy for me. I had a grueling martial arts proficiency test (I passed!), and then a lot of extra physical jobs like carpet cleanings, and the like. I would work through weekends, or take only one day off, and I would push myself further and further mentally and physically. I pushed too hard, and now I'm sick.
Yeah, I got a cold n' shit. Awesome, right? I worked out only ONCE last week, and none this week. I've been tired at work, tired at home, and now I'm sick. Because I pushed myself too. Hard.
This entry is a cautionary one. Work hard. Push yourself. Never settle, never be in your comfort zone for too long. Work baby, work. But for the love of god, don't forget to slow down and just...eat an ice cream cone with your girl/boyfriend. Watch a stupid comedy movie rife with crude humor and gratuitous nudity. Laugh with a friend over a few shots and a brew. HAVE FUN!
If you're always pushing yourself, eventually? You'll be so far past your limit that you'll have to backtrack. And then? All that hard work was for nothing.
Monday, September 10, 2012
Frustration
There comes a time in all of our careers where things don't go so well. Don't get me wrong- Budget isn't closing her doors anytime soon. But, whether its lack of business, morale, hiring problems, et cetera, we all get angry and frustrated sometimes, no matter how much we love our jobs.
How much are you willing to take at your job? Are you in it for the long haul, or are you just balancing on a stepping stone? That's a scary answer I'm sure. Hell, it's a scary question too. But it's a question we must all ask ourselves if we are to be happy. Being in a job you tolerate or like can be rewarding. Can be.
In spite of your best efforts, sometimes there are road blocks, and other obstacles along the way that can stop you from doing you best. These road blocks can even stop you from caring. Being jaded and cynical in the business world is not a good way to be. Being naive and foolish is also a bad idea.
Like many things in life, business, a good one, is a delicate balance. You must take it seriously, but you must also be calm and lax about it. You must work hard, but you must also rest and slack off every once and awhile. This is your job. Maybe even your career. What's the point in doing anything if you can't enjoy it somehow? Because you stop living after a while of being stuck in a place you hate. You just...survive.
I am frustrated at work. We are having morale and hiring issues, and this is augmented by the fact that we had a very rough and very slow August (as was expect, summer is our slow season). And my stress can leak through and contaminate others very easily. As I try to claw my way out of my own negativity, the others around me must also be trying to better themselves and keep a positive attitude. Otherwise, why are we even here? What are we even doing? Why does it even matter? It fuckin' doesn't.
Sometimes, you're the only one that wants to make a change for the better. Or at least try to make a change. But you must also realize that just because others don't care as much as you do, don't listen to you enough, or ignore you too much, doesn't mean you have to yield to the status quo and become another mindless cog in the grave great machine of work.
We all get frustrated sometimes. We all wanna quit our jobs at least once in our lives. That's normal. But you must also ask yourself if your complaints are genuine feelings of anger and disgust, or just workplace Monday blues. Think about it.
How much are you willing to take at your job? Are you in it for the long haul, or are you just balancing on a stepping stone? That's a scary answer I'm sure. Hell, it's a scary question too. But it's a question we must all ask ourselves if we are to be happy. Being in a job you tolerate or like can be rewarding. Can be.
In spite of your best efforts, sometimes there are road blocks, and other obstacles along the way that can stop you from doing you best. These road blocks can even stop you from caring. Being jaded and cynical in the business world is not a good way to be. Being naive and foolish is also a bad idea.
Like many things in life, business, a good one, is a delicate balance. You must take it seriously, but you must also be calm and lax about it. You must work hard, but you must also rest and slack off every once and awhile. This is your job. Maybe even your career. What's the point in doing anything if you can't enjoy it somehow? Because you stop living after a while of being stuck in a place you hate. You just...survive.
I am frustrated at work. We are having morale and hiring issues, and this is augmented by the fact that we had a very rough and very slow August (as was expect, summer is our slow season). And my stress can leak through and contaminate others very easily. As I try to claw my way out of my own negativity, the others around me must also be trying to better themselves and keep a positive attitude. Otherwise, why are we even here? What are we even doing? Why does it even matter? It fuckin' doesn't.
Sometimes, you're the only one that wants to make a change for the better. Or at least try to make a change. But you must also realize that just because others don't care as much as you do, don't listen to you enough, or ignore you too much, doesn't mean you have to yield to the status quo and become another mindless cog in the grave great machine of work.
We all get frustrated sometimes. We all wanna quit our jobs at least once in our lives. That's normal. But you must also ask yourself if your complaints are genuine feelings of anger and disgust, or just workplace Monday blues. Think about it.
Monday, August 27, 2012
Taking Crap
No matter how good you are, no matter how hard you try, you just can't please everyone. And sometimes, it is directly your fault that you haven't pleased someone. This goes true in life, and in business. Hence the title of this entry, "Taking Crap".
Customers that complain are very important to a business. They let you know what you're doing wrong, what needs to be improved on, what you need to do to be a better company as a whole. I'm glad that we get customers that complain at Budget. We're not perfect, nor will we ever be.
But we all run into individuals in our lives, whether personal or professional, that simply cannot be satisfied. No matter what you do, there is always a problem, there is always something they want done over, there is always a discount they want applied. These types of people (perhaps you are one for shame, shame) can often sour the positive mood of a company, and wreck morale.
This shouldn't happen.
No matter what criticisms you receive in your life, take them with grace, and dignity. Stand up for yourself when applicable, and accept/admit when you are wrong. It gets hard to listen to customers complain sometimes not because it annoys me. It's just that...I feel like I failed them, and I want to try and make things right. As for the other type, I simply deal with them the best I can, and then disconnect from the feelings that the situation has inflicted upon me.
Being in business means you must being accepting of criticism, and capable to take abuse. A thick skin combined with a good attitude and acute intelligence will prevent you from being hurt, and allow you to improve and grow your business.
Any war stories you'd like share?
Customers that complain are very important to a business. They let you know what you're doing wrong, what needs to be improved on, what you need to do to be a better company as a whole. I'm glad that we get customers that complain at Budget. We're not perfect, nor will we ever be.
But we all run into individuals in our lives, whether personal or professional, that simply cannot be satisfied. No matter what you do, there is always a problem, there is always something they want done over, there is always a discount they want applied. These types of people (perhaps you are one for shame, shame) can often sour the positive mood of a company, and wreck morale.
This shouldn't happen.
No matter what criticisms you receive in your life, take them with grace, and dignity. Stand up for yourself when applicable, and accept/admit when you are wrong. It gets hard to listen to customers complain sometimes not because it annoys me. It's just that...I feel like I failed them, and I want to try and make things right. As for the other type, I simply deal with them the best I can, and then disconnect from the feelings that the situation has inflicted upon me.
Being in business means you must being accepting of criticism, and capable to take abuse. A thick skin combined with a good attitude and acute intelligence will prevent you from being hurt, and allow you to improve and grow your business.
Any war stories you'd like share?
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Hard Work Breaks Office Chains
Over the past weekend, Budget got a large account. So large in fact, that we didn't have enough people to do it, so I and my father worked alongside four other employees to get the job done. After my father left for a wedding, it was just me, and the crew. The manager in me spoke up, making sure that I watched everything that was going on, and made sure that everything got done right. But there was another part of my job and position that I had forgotten about, and that's the physical, back breaking labor.
When I was a teenager, I would work over the summer with my 'rents cleaning homes. I would dust, wash floors, and clean bathrooms. It was hard work. In fact, the only other time I've encountered something more difficult on a job site was working at a farm slingin' hay bales. Anyway, I had become restless at Budget as of late. Bored. Unproductive. In fact, I was dreading the past weekend, and wanted someone else to take my place. But there was no-one else.
There was no-one else, and I am glad that there wasn't. I had forgotten about the physical end of the job, and how rewarding it is to work alongside with other people going towards the same goal you are- cleaning. I was sore, covered in sweat, mentally and physically exhausted, but I went home that day knowing that we, not I, we did a good job, and out customer will be happy. And guess what? They were happy.
If you are stuck in an office for the majority of the day like I am, try and get out in the field somewhere to do some real, honest to goodness physical labor if you can, or are able. It shakes off the dust of being a sedentary creature sitting at a computer all day. I know this because I am recharged and re motivated to do good in the company again, and it was all because I reminded myself of how hard all our employees work, and how much time they put into they're jobs. I feel like a new man. I truly do.
When I was a teenager, I would work over the summer with my 'rents cleaning homes. I would dust, wash floors, and clean bathrooms. It was hard work. In fact, the only other time I've encountered something more difficult on a job site was working at a farm slingin' hay bales. Anyway, I had become restless at Budget as of late. Bored. Unproductive. In fact, I was dreading the past weekend, and wanted someone else to take my place. But there was no-one else.
There was no-one else, and I am glad that there wasn't. I had forgotten about the physical end of the job, and how rewarding it is to work alongside with other people going towards the same goal you are- cleaning. I was sore, covered in sweat, mentally and physically exhausted, but I went home that day knowing that we, not I, we did a good job, and out customer will be happy. And guess what? They were happy.
If you are stuck in an office for the majority of the day like I am, try and get out in the field somewhere to do some real, honest to goodness physical labor if you can, or are able. It shakes off the dust of being a sedentary creature sitting at a computer all day. I know this because I am recharged and re motivated to do good in the company again, and it was all because I reminded myself of how hard all our employees work, and how much time they put into they're jobs. I feel like a new man. I truly do.
Monday, July 30, 2012
Eight Days Straight
I haven't had a day off in eight days. Am I complaining? Ab-so-lutely not. There are people that go twice as long, and longer I'm sure. Then why am I running my mouth?
Because I'm, once again, understanding more and more about what it means to be an owner. And it's an honor! Listen. Last week, my father Bill couldn't perform the weekend duties around here, so I covered for him. He's my dad, and he's my co-worker. I would have done it for anybody, and twice over for him. There was no-one we could trust to do it, so it came down to me working a very long week. And you know what? It was difficult, and one of the greatest challenges in my life.
And I was happy to do it. Stressed, tried, and worn out, but happy to do it. I know I helped make a difference here at Budget, like my parents, and the countless employees before me that actually give a damn about this place and where its going. For the first time, I really truly felt like I was a valuable member to this company. Personally, this week meant a lot to me, and I am know that'll I'll be able to run this business when I get in the saddle.
Because I'm, once again, understanding more and more about what it means to be an owner. And it's an honor! Listen. Last week, my father Bill couldn't perform the weekend duties around here, so I covered for him. He's my dad, and he's my co-worker. I would have done it for anybody, and twice over for him. There was no-one we could trust to do it, so it came down to me working a very long week. And you know what? It was difficult, and one of the greatest challenges in my life.
And I was happy to do it. Stressed, tried, and worn out, but happy to do it. I know I helped make a difference here at Budget, like my parents, and the countless employees before me that actually give a damn about this place and where its going. For the first time, I really truly felt like I was a valuable member to this company. Personally, this week meant a lot to me, and I am know that'll I'll be able to run this business when I get in the saddle.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Thinking Like an Owner
It's an abstract way of thinking, yes. I will say that. How does one think like an owner? Are you born a leader? Do you achieve it? Can you learn it? I don't know yet. Will I? No clue. Big questions, no answers.
When I signed on with Budget as a formal employee/partner, I...well. Let's not sugarcoat it. I didn't know what the flying flapping flip I was doing. No clue. I knew how to clean toilets, and dust surfaces. That's it. I had no idea what goes into running a business. I knew it wasn't easy, but I didn't know it was this hard.
Everyone has had a job at least once in there life. Well, in most circumstances. Anyway, you may be used to doin' your thing, getting a paycheck, and then going home. Anything outside of your duties fell into a place where you simply didn't have to worry about them. Now that I am on the side that gives out paychecks, I can really see what an owner goes though.
We've had ups. We've had downs. When a company is failing (we're not, but hear me out), employees typically jump ship. Hell, I would have. Now, I see the value in sticking around. Working for it. Not just giving up and moving on to the next venture. There are things that need to be done, and they need to be done well.
Recently, very recently as a matter of fact, I've really started to think like an owner. Hell, I should right? This place will be mine someday. I watch my parents struggle, I watch the employees struggle, and I watch both og these parties rise up above the everyday shit of running a business and stay aloft on success. I still have a lot to learn, but you can be certian that I'll learn it all.
And Ill KEEP learning.
What about you? Do you think like an owner? Are you going to take on a business someday? Let me know.
When I signed on with Budget as a formal employee/partner, I...well. Let's not sugarcoat it. I didn't know what the flying flapping flip I was doing. No clue. I knew how to clean toilets, and dust surfaces. That's it. I had no idea what goes into running a business. I knew it wasn't easy, but I didn't know it was this hard.
Everyone has had a job at least once in there life. Well, in most circumstances. Anyway, you may be used to doin' your thing, getting a paycheck, and then going home. Anything outside of your duties fell into a place where you simply didn't have to worry about them. Now that I am on the side that gives out paychecks, I can really see what an owner goes though.
We've had ups. We've had downs. When a company is failing (we're not, but hear me out), employees typically jump ship. Hell, I would have. Now, I see the value in sticking around. Working for it. Not just giving up and moving on to the next venture. There are things that need to be done, and they need to be done well.
Recently, very recently as a matter of fact, I've really started to think like an owner. Hell, I should right? This place will be mine someday. I watch my parents struggle, I watch the employees struggle, and I watch both og these parties rise up above the everyday shit of running a business and stay aloft on success. I still have a lot to learn, but you can be certian that I'll learn it all.
And Ill KEEP learning.
What about you? Do you think like an owner? Are you going to take on a business someday? Let me know.
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