Postcards from the Funny Farm

Have you ever had to ask for one of these on your own behalf? It’s a real drag for me because I hate to ask for someone to take time out of their busy day and write a letter for me that will do nothing for them whatsoever. I’m more into reciprocal favors, that way both sides benefit. I’ve probably had to ask a dozen or so people in my career to write me these letters and it’s always been uncomfortable. But today, I am starting to think maybe it was just me feeling uncomfortable.

An aide here at work asked me for one and even though I was quite busy, I enjoyed writing it for her. She’s a very hard working sub and aide and it made me happy to help her get into the workforce in a new job she is looking for. I suppose I am now the experienced one in the field being asked to do the writing and I can tell you, I don’t mind it at all!

I’ve written on this blog before about how asking for help can really further your career, and maybe now I am closer to accepting my own advice. There are some things I have learned that I must relearn and relearn again. For me, asking for something like a letter of recommendation is one of those really hard things to do: I know it’s my right and privilege to do, but I still hate doing it.

How do you feel about asking for letters of recommendation?

There are many more ways, but I was thinking this morning that a process always helps.  Perhaps you can add your own to this list:

1. Wake up on time (alarm clock with a mellow station).
2. Make some good coffee.
3. Have your outfit all picked out the night before (not always possible I know).
4. Train your school-age son(daughter) to make the lunches (LOL).
5. Have a CD picked out with music that inspires you, make sure it is in your car.
6. As you are getting your coffee made and last minute stuff, start your car and turn the heat on full-blast (winter only).
7. As you drive to work, think about the possibilities of the day. Look at struggles and worries as merely “opportunities” to see life a new way and improve yourself.
8. Think about positive things as you listen to your music on the way. Admire the beauty of the desert all around you.
9. Consciously remember to smile at people today, you affect others more than you know.
10. Be ready, for anything … and when anything comes your way, accept it as either a positive or an opportunity.
11. Commit yourself to be 100% in the moment.  This means not worrying about the future or the past.  I have found they both take care of themselves.
12. Create a relevant greeting to use so you don’t get tongue tied in those stressful moments.  When you see someone at work, say: ___________. (examples: Hi, 3 day weekend.  Happy Thursday.  Hang in there,  etc.)
13. Have pictures of your kids on your desk and focus on the reasons you work.
14. Make another CD of your favorite songs and play it in your office area or MP3 player if this is possible in your workspace.  For me, its in my classroom before the kids come in.
15. If you have friends at work that won’t mind, send them a short email letting them know you are thinking of them and that you hope they have a great day.  The replies throughout the day are great to remind you of the same thing.
16. Take time to breathe and do nothing for a few mintes before work.  Meditate, pray, think, be still … etc.
17. If a bunch of stuff has been cluttering somewhere for a while, its probably not crucial.  Put it all out of sight temporarily (a cabinet, a bin, a box etc.).  This will create a clear place in your work area that can help you see possibilities.
18. Structure your day with an agenda by hour and check it off as you go.
19. Say this statement three times out loud when you are alone: “I am fortunate.”
20. Accept that there is something larger than yourself and surrender that you are small in the big scheme of things.  Even if you wanted to be in control of everything, it wouldn’t be possible so be faithful in the small things on your agenda and make it an excellent day.

What do you do to have a good workday?