marcoujor: Stepping Out

I abruptly stepped out of my nursing management career track in June, 1999. I’d like to believe that this was the only decision in my adult life that was made for me.

Today, almost nineteen years later, I feel blessed in my work with students and professional colleagues in the university setting.

Actually, I can’t imagine wanting to be a manager or boss (of any kind) ever again. I have a great admiration for most bosses I have reported to over the years. I have an even greater appreciation of the unique stressors they face on a daily basis.

I believe that each of us are in possession of our own unique stressors - whether personal, professional, situational, chronic, expected, unexpected or anywhere in between.

Image via geralt (Gerd Altmann) of Pixabay. Click here to visit his gallery.

I find myself unconsciously applying a leadership strategy I learned in what seems another lifetime (aka the 1980s). Summarizing this principle in an (implied) statement, it would go something like this...

“Please hold my place on the dancefloor. I’m stepping out to the balcony for a bit.”

I admit to using this concept in a variety of ways on countless occasions - in both personal and professional matters. I step away, even if only for a couple moments, from chaos, noise or confusion that is not life - threatening.     

While I cannot remember the source or the author, this link to an article written by Russ Linden  more than adequately elaborates on this basic principle - as much a staple in my ‘interpersonal menu’ as fruits and vegetables are to my diet.

My (symbolic) balcony allows me to return to a tumultuous situation with a clear head about what, if anything, I can contribute towards a positive outcome.

Oh, and no surprise that my interpersonal menu has some musical selections du jour … and please, enjoy the silence and clarity that one can find ‘on the balcony’:

I thought this quotation from Adam West (yes, Batman…!!) was a fitting way to conclude this week’s desk post:

"Over the years, I've learned that if you can just hang in there and, regardless of what's presented to you, take it as a challenge and try to bring in something fresh, then it works."

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ShoutOuts

☙ Addictive hobbies via Martie’s Foyer

☙ Carfentanyl -The Newest Scourge via WarnerWords

☙ Alternative Milks for Acid Reflux Relief via flashPress

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Until next week, remember that peace is preferable, starting from within.

Hugs,

mar