Realize: To Most People, It’s Only a Job
Colleagues who have worked closely with me would describe my attitude as friendly, respectful, cooperative, loyal, caring and ready to help out, always putting forth the extra effort. I thoroughly enjoyed my last job and the relationships I formed were invaluable. I know they would describe me as a positive influence to be around and one with a charismatic instinct. I took pleasure in having fun at work telling jokes or sharing stories. They would describe my attitude toward personal life as one that values friendship, family, social and physical activities. My employees know I cared for them professionally and personally. I tried to have as much fun inside work as I did outside. I believe one of the major keys to happiness and well-being is having a good work/life relationship.
In Walt’s instance, his employees would describe his attitude towards work of one that is inflexible, unprincipled, has very high standards, but motivated and results oriented. He was a successful manager and it proved to be that way, but his demands were extremely high. His work expectations were not the same as his employees. In some instances, his practices and behavior didn’t act in accordance with moral principles. His employee’s weren’t enjoying work or being acknowledged for their work. In some respects, Walt was too self indulged and only cared about his own desires.
For Walt, there wasn’t much time for a personal life or a real work/life balance. He took much more pride in working hard than taking time for life outside of work. His employees seem disgruntled and unhappy about some of the work demands in correlation to their own personal lives. He rescheduled planned employee vacations and even enjoying a full lunch break was looked down upon. He had a high turnover rate and employees were not being paid properly for time worked.
You can make a distinction between setting an example and making covert demands by having clear expectations and proper communication with your employees. To be an effective leader it requires a clear and an unambiguous sense of direction and expectations that are known and understood by all. People want and need continued balanced performance feedback and recognition for their efforts.
Walt set examples by his pursuit of hard work. He came in to work early, worked through lunch and even stayed late. He expected employees to work overtime, to forgo family and personal interests and have work be at the center of their lives. He didn’t realize the difference between setting an example and making a covert demand.
Walt needed to have better communication with his employees and listen to their ideas and concepts. Walt had frustrations within the firm and he struggled with grasping the concept of not openly acknowledging demands. Walt set great examples through his dedication and commitment to hard work at his job, but he could have set better demands by setting goals and rewards for employee satisfaction.
I balance my work life by creating activities outside of work. A couple days a week I’ll get together with friends for “steak night” or playing in a co-ed softball league. My work and personal life has a give and take balance. Some nights require more attention at work with meetings that run late or projects that need to be completed. I make sure that my personal life gets enough attention by communicating effectively with my friends and family. Most of my friends and family understand my work life and know it is not a normal 9 to 5 job. For the most part, they understood my profession and what it took to succeed at a high level.
Iv’e created a schedule that allows myself to spend time concentrating on my personal life. I focus on friends and family members, and allow myself the opportunity to participate in important traditions and holidays. I enjoy activities with family members and friends. We bike ride, camp, watch TV shows, work out, travel, etc.
In today’s world, it can be very stressful balancing the opportunities of work and the demands of our personal life. Having a good attitude and a sense of self awareness can be crucial to your success. Every human being has varying reasons for working, but we all work because we want to obtain something that we need. What we obtain from work impacts our motivation, morale, and the quality of life. Treating employees with respect and thinking about their needs will fulfill a positive work environment.