Wind Shift

One of my co-workers is quitting to consult full-time. I'm not surprised -- he's always been miserable here -- but at the same time I'm sad because I think he's an asset to the school. Or he could be if he would change his attitude.

He's just a little wet behind the ears, still. From what I've seen he snaps at people who could help him, he ignores the things he should pay attention to, and tries to change the things he doesn't have enough influence to even vote on. And he's grumpy. People actually call him "that grumpy guy in IT."

Knowing he's leaving (and knowing some of his reasons since our paper-thin walls force me to be an unwitting party to every phone call he makes) have persuaded me to once again examine how satisfied I am with my job.

One of his chief beliefs, based on his phone conversation, is that work and personal life are two separate domains of existence. He seems to feel those of us who let our work become part of our lives are somehow less efficient workers.

This belief is highly repugnant to me. I think a balance is key, and I also think partnerships in a work environment are stronger if there are personal friendships backing the partnership. Of course I'm biased because there really isn't a whole lot in my personal life. I don't mind taking an hour in the day to have a social lunch with a co-worker, and to make up that "lost" hour in the evening after traditional work hours.

I do know to do my job well (which is questionable this semester) I have to push myself harder than the job requires. I have to commit to being the best, not just being "good enough."

I have to love the job.

If that isn't personal I don't know what is.