Reflections on Work

Today is the last day of my two week notice.  I will be starting a new job on Monday.  I feel like I should reflect on this some, but I'm not really sure what to say about it.  I'll just do my best to be honest and hope that makes for good reading!

The job I'm leaving isn't a terrible job.  I don't work with terrible people.  In fact, most of my coworkers are lovely people.  I don't hate my job.  But I don't love it either.  I guess that's the problem.  Many people would be content to do what I've been doing.  I work in an office at a community college.  Some days I love what I do.  The days I get to help students achieve their goals and I feel like I'm making a real difference--those days---I love my job.  Most days, however, are filled with mediocrity.  Most days are the same.  Most tasks are the same.  Most questions are the same.  I've gotten bored with more of the same.

I've become quite efficient at my daily tasks.  As a result I tend to finish my work hours before I'm actually scheduled (and able) to leave.  I get bored.  I despise being bored.  I suppose I needed something more challenging and there wasn't much more I could add to this position to make it more challenging.  There was only so much I could grow and learn in this position, and I'd met that goal.

I think you should always strive to learn about yourself, and I certainly learned a lot about myself through the course of this position.  I learned that I absolutely hate working inside.  I wrote this post to better explain that lesson.  I also learned I get bored if i have to sit down for too long.  I like to move around.  I like to teach.  I'm not an office work kind of gal!  I like to be challenged. I like to master tasks.  I'm pretty good at increasing workplace efficiency.  Who knew?  Certainly not me. 

I also learned that it's easier to get up and go to work every day if you like the people you work with.  Even a mundane job is more fun when you have pleasant coworkers.  I learned that irritation can be overcome with laughter.  A smile really can brighten your day.  A kind word is always welcome.  Someone appreciates what you do, even if you don't think it's important.  I learned that it's okay to do what's best for you.  People will understand.  My coworkers have shown me the good in people.  I will be forever grateful for that. 

So this job wasn't a waste of my time, energy, and efforts.  I grew in this position.  This position was an important stepping stone in my continued growth and potential. 

I am nervous and excited to begin my new position. I am also brimming with hope.  I hope this new job will teach me as much as the old one did.  I hope my coworkers will be as amazingly kind.  I hope I will find joy in every assignment.  I hope this new position will lead to bigger and brighter things.  I hope my first day will be wonderful!