SEPARATE YOUR STRUGGLES

In a professional environment, it is understood that we will provide a service without getting your personal life involved. Service may change depending on the employer and field of work. My work experience consists of customer service. The customer orders a drink, I make it and give it to them. Just like any service, this is shown in the exchange of money. The expectations are set to a standard and are expected to be produced. Making a cup of coffee is more forgivable than performing brain surgery. During a high volume rush at the coffee shop, when someone makes a mistake, the recovery is easy, and the only consequence is that a customer has to wait a few extra minutes. The tension is a lot higher; a cut too deep can mean irreversible damage to the brain and nerves. In therapy, the patient may not benefit from the sessions; if they know them on a personal level. These work environments are different in many ways, but they all have the same goal at the core. What I have learned from serving a simple cup of coffee is that if you don’t keep your cool, you will cause a problem. I have learned to compose myself during those stressful situations after seeing the dramatic effects of my intrinsic frustrations on my work environment. I had felt these consequences more invasively when I enlisted into the Army. I was held accountable for my actions as a civilian but even more so as a soldier. People were watching me, my movements, my expressions, my thoughts. To uphold a professional character as I slowly get moulded into a man that protects his country. When in reality, I just signed a dotted line. Knowing what I was getting myself into. I learned to aspire to be greater than I can ever be. During those periods of weakness, stress, and failures. However, it was not for me but for the people around me. We took care of each other, and to do that, we had to make sure we took care of ourselves. The greatest lesson the Army and my friends have taught me. I will continue to move forward with many failures along the path as long as I can separate those struggles from my ultimate goal. I will be better professional overall.