Category: Motivation

If there is something you really want to do, don’t wait until tomorrow. Do it now. One day, I was having a short conversation with one of my best friends. The conversations with her were always short because she worked one full time job, one part time, and attended school full time, while raising two young girls on her own. Nevertheless, she made time to chat with me while in route to or from one of her jobs or school. Thinking about a typical day for my friend sparked something in me. I thought to myself, “If she’s able to work two jobs and take care of two little girls and still go back to school, what’s stopping me?” At the time, I had only one full time job, four kids, and a husband to help me out. I had so much down time at work that I found myself on social networks, browsing the Internet, and shopping. I knew I could have been making better use of my down time, but I just didn’t know how. Thus, I left a message for an enrollment counselor at the University of Phoenix to call me back. I didn’t receive a call back the first time, so after a second attempt, I was able to reach someone. The enrollment counselor asked me a few questions before explaining my options. He had me all pumped up and excited but nervous at the same time. I had been out of school for a while, and the last time I was enrolled, I failed terribly.

Prior to speaking with the enrollment counselor at Phoenix, I was denied financial assistance the last time I attempted to go back to school in 2004. I think I had sort of given up at that point because I knew I could not afford to pay out of pocket. One rejection set me back by four years because I didn’t fight for it. Anyhow, my goal was to start back in the spring of 2009, but the enrollment counselor talked me into starting right away. At first, I was kind of mad that I let him talk me into starting right away, but I was grateful in the end. I probably would have come up with a million and one excuses as to why I could not start in the January 2009.

On September 30, 2008, I became a college student once again. On June 2, 2012, I became a college graduate! Walking across that stage was one of the best feelings I’ve ever experienced. I have absolutely no regrets! So what are you waiting for? The right time is now! I could have been still sitting in that cubicle at work on social networks and shopping, but instead, I used that time wisely and pursued a degree online…while on the clock. That was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made at the expense of my employer. So whether you want to go back to school, start a business, or buy some property, don’t procrastinate…do it now!

And remember…
“Make sense of what you do, and make every cent count.”

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Photo. Flickr. There are times of QC failures by Markus Bahlmann

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“I’ve worked hard on that report, yet you offered no support. I even stayed after hours because my days seemed short. I was so into my work, so I didn’t keep track of time. I really wanted to impress you, but you paid me no mind. If you knew the effort I put forth, you would’ve said more than “thanks”. I guess the next time I’ll just have to fill in the blanks.”

I know it feels good when someone tells you “good job” or “keep up the good work”, but sometimes you have to pat yourself on the back. Top level employees often do not realize how hard lower level employees work and how just an ounce of appreciation can increase employee morale. It can also determine whether or not an employee will pursue longevity with that employer. So in other words, a simple sign of gratitude can increase employee morale and decrease turnover. If you think about it, employees would get more work done with less complaining and complaints against them. Employers can relax knowing that their business is in good hands, and they don’t have to spend so much time and money hiring new employees. It’s a win win! People who love their jobs usually don’t leave them.

Some employers are great at extending their appreciation, whereas others are not. They haven’t learned the simple formula yet, and maybe they never will. If you work for one of them, you’ll have to learn to pat yourself on the back until you find an employer that will recognize your contributions to the company. No employee should ever feel under-appreciated because a business cannot fully function without employees. However, because you need your job to sustain your living, keep up the good work and be the invisible hand that motivates you.

And remember…
“Make sense of what you do, and make every cent count.”

Photo: Flickr Accepting Yourself by BKCC

Something captured your interest? Don’t be selfish. Share with your friends!