Trying to make everyone happy all the time is a tall order, but here’s my take on it from personal experience.
Once, I considered returning to work after a blissful two years of freedom. My friends couldn’t believe it. They wondered why I’d want to dive back into the stress after working so hard to escape it. But honestly, I was bored. Life as a writer thrives on emotional highs and lows; they fuel creativity and make writing so much richer.
In the past, I’ve dealt with colleagues who’ve thrown me under the bus or promised one thing and did another. And strangely, I appreciated these experiences—they made the good times even sweeter.
When you’re used to freedom, you start to take it for granted. Returning to work, even in a subordinate role, reignited my appreciation for the freedom I had. This post isn’t just for those afraid of being laid off—it’s for anyone who feels stagnant.
Embracing Subordination to Enhance Creativity
As a writer, creativity is your currency, but it’s highly individualistic. If you asked several writers to describe a simple process like tying shoes, each description would be unique. Good editing means enhancing a writer’s creativity, not stifling it.
I once worked as a consultant where I was given absurd guidelines on which images to use for my posts, which stifled my creative choices. Instead of clashing with the graphics department, I suggested they create a repository of approved images to streamline the process. While my suggestion was initially ignored, it eventually led to fewer critiques since no repository was ever created, and the person behind these restrictions eventually left the company.
The Lessons of Subordination
Even the most absurd requests should be accommodated. Often, the people making these requests have little understanding of the practical implications. Agreeing initially and then asking for specific guidance can expose their lack of expertise, leaving you to work more freely.
Always remember, as an employee, you’re replaceable. Keeping a humble attitude, especially if you need the job, is crucial. For those who enjoy the financial rewards, like myself, finding joy in the role of a compliant employee can be thrilling. It’s a dance of giving control to others, which can be both liberating and a strategic career move.
Dealing with Inexperience in Leadership
In another role, I was under a new Head of Content who, shockingly, had no actual experience with content. This person hadn’t published anything online nor managed content strategies. My respect dwindled, and rather than compromise my standards, I offered to resign when the leadership failed to recognize the mismatch. This led to a series of emergency meetings, but it only solidified my decision to stand my ground, knowing my worth and the value I brought to the company.
Monetary Freedom and Career Choices
Financial stability gives you the liberty to make decisions that align with your values rather than out of necessity. When I realized that my role was undervalued, and after the new Head of Content was dismissed, it affirmed that understanding your worth is crucial. It’s not just about making others happy; it’s about recognizing when to advance your interests.
Concluding Thoughts on Workplace Dynamics
Ultimately, making people happy all the time is an impossible task, especially in professional settings where opinions and directions can vastly differ. The key takeaway here is the importance of adaptability and knowing when to challenge the status quo versus when to conform for broader strategic gains.
Managing your finances wisely, understanding your professional environment, and making calculated decisions about when to push back and when to blend in are essential strategies for navigating any career path.
