You make an impression on someone every day whether it’s with a smile, a hello, a head nod, a middle finger…just your interaction, your appearance or aloofness will make an impression on people you don’t even know. Do you make an impact? If so, what kind of impact? We can all agree that impacts are both positive and negative. I mean, I’ve had supervisors that had no business being in the position and those supervisors clearly had a negative impact on my day, on the way I would want to supervise, etc. I want to talk about positive impacts. How do you know when you’ve made a positive, lasting impact on someone? Do you ever know? Well….you may never know the impact you’ve had on someone unless they choose to tell you – – – DUN DUN DUUUUN!
I have tried my best to interact in a positive manner with everyone I have come into contact with. Being a supervisor, coworker, etc – every day, with every interaction, I try to be positive (obviously I’m not on my game EVERY day – but I try). I pride myself on being exactly who I am – goofy, not going with the flow, direct but professional, inclusive to everyone, a friend to everyone (cuz you can never have too many friends) and a genuine person. Having said all (or just some) that I am – – – What I am NOT: a pushover! Had to ensure I clarified that! lol Well, this past week I had a few interactions with previous coworkers and friends who let me know of my impact in their lives. This one in particular really got me – had my eyes leaking. It was probably my allergies!
At my previous job, they have a winter and spring bowling league. I was always trying to improve the morale in my section because who wants to go to work and be miserable all day? Sooooooooo – I got just a few people to join my team. And – we had a blast! It was so much fun! I showed up with my own ball and shoes (with lighty-uppy laces)! Other individuals in my section wanted to join and I ended up having an opening on my team. This individual was a crazy-good bowler but an even better friend. Note – get to know the people you work with OUTSIDE of your job…makes all the difference during your workday. My team did great for its first time in the league. We actually should have come in first or second place but the guy in charge left to go on a month-long cruise and did not update my team roster….whatever. We won and I’m sticking with it!
At the end of season potluck, I brought sugar cookies that my daughter baked, and I decorated. They were a hit! This individual/coworker/friend told me that he was going to keep his cookies and not eat them. Who does that?!?!?! They’re supposed to be eaten and also…eeeeeewwwwwwww! Well, this is what I received in a text this past week…….
I asked him why he still had those cookies (those cookies are more than 15 months old). His response was, “Cuz that was a very special memory that I hold dear to my heart… & cuz they’re adorable!!” And – cue the water works. This simple, random text from my friend let me know that I am making a positive impact, that little gestures have huge meanings for others and that I’m still going to continue being exactly who I am…along with all of my other titles, let’s add weird, cookie lady!
Until next time…xoxo
Tracy
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