1/6/26

 This is a reminder that sometimes things happen in the moment that we don’t understand. Then at some point there is clarity, sometimes years down the road. 

 Ethan’s initial heart condition is what ultimately led us to discovering he needed a heart transplant. Therefore I am thankful now for his initial heart condition. In the moment, I was not.

Today at work, I was frustrated with a scenario that impacted some people that may otherwise not have a voice. It was with a flawed system outside of my control. As I spoke outloud to only my dogs about my disgust and disapproval, I ultimately landed on “You can’t control everything, focus on where you can make a difference.” I wanted to come up with a solution that would help people but also put me in the driver’s seat.

I strategically created a rant and put it in a place where people higher up the food chain would see.

Years ago I worked with someone that was so incredibly frustrating. I often wondered why I had to suffer around this person but I put up with it because otherwise I liked my position. This person had a way of belittling people, the way they would do it was done so smartly. It often left the belittling unarguable. It was kind of like a super power, unless you were on the wrong end of it.

I remember being frustrated and disgusted with this activity. This person was not kind but had a “gift”. But how can you use that “gift” alternatively? This person did have a gift with words and was very eloquent and persuasive despite their undermining personality.

I chose to voice my opinion in a way that got my point across but also would offer a solution. Not only to myself, but to others on my team feeling the same way. O chose to do it in a kind way. I chose my words carefully to initiate change impact-fully instead of in a complaint form. Let me tell you, it took a few revision's

Turns out, this technique was useful in this situation. I had a solution to share, but also initiated a change. It was a small change but a big win for me (and will positively affect others).

Had that person not modeled their “gift” of influential language (even if it was in the wrong way) I may not have been able to pull off my rant as well. I may not have initiated change today. So I am thankful that person was in my life (thankful now, but not at the time). Even though I didn’t like them, I apparently learned from them. I still do admire their way with words.

The best part of my rant….I found others were feeling the same way! Holy crap! It worked! Yay! I stood a little taller at my stand up desk.

So when you are just hating your situation, make a note of it. Some day you may understand a little clearer why a situation or someone was put in your path. That message of clarity for today. 

Also, side note….I started doing awkward and slightly unhinged sign off’s with my boss in my emails. I saw a reel about it and sent it to her. She laughed and is in on the joke. We were laughing today at some of them.

“If you have any questions, please don’t ask me”

Patti

“Room temperature regards”

Patti

“Please hesitate to reach out.”

Patti

“From the windows….to the walls”

Patti

Sometimes I feel sorry for my co-workers.