Embrace your true self.
I remember a long time ago when I worked at a particular company, a bustling environment filled with diverse personalities and ambitions. There was a woman who approached me during a break, her tone serious as she leaned in slightly, and said, right in front of another coworker, “Don’t be fooled by her smile because she’s really a little 'B'.” Her words struck me hard, leaving me confused about how to view my own demeanor.
Another day, a younger colleague, full of ambition and determination, caught me off guard. I approached her with genuine warmth and friendliness, hoping to foster a connection. She looked at me, her expression a mix of seriousness and a hint of indifference, and said, “Hi lady, I come here to make money, not to make friends.” Her bluntness left me questioning my approach to workplace relationships.
To summarize, I almost believed what both of these women said about me. I started to worry that I really was a little 'B' and that, as they suggested, the primary purpose of going to work is purely to earn a paycheck.
Over time, through numerous experiences and reflections, life has given me ample opportunity to understand that I am not a little 'B.' While I may be short in stature, I pride myself on my character and the kindness I try to show to others. I don’t aspire to embody the negativity that can sometimes pervade the workplace. And yes, regardless of the system in which you find yourself working—whether corporate or casual—you ultimately go to work to earn a livelihood. However, there are moments when I would willingly work for free if it meant helping a colleague or making a positive impact; such instances turn casual coworkers into genuine work friends.
According to the Bible, there is a time and place for everything—recognizing that has helped me maintain perspective.
The moral of this story is simple yet powerful: don’t let anyone dictate who you are not, as their judgments often stem from their own insecurities and experiences. Embrace your true self and accept that everyone has their own reflections and struggles.
