How I felt last week…

(EvilFire4321 2010)

How I feel this week…

(istock 2013)

This time tomorrow I will be en route to a much needed tropical island holiday! Boy am I glad I put in that leave request form. Mind you, I almost didn’t. Last month at the office was hectic. With everyone, especially my superiors, working to their limits I almost felt inappropriate requesting time off. This is all still very new to me; honing the perfect work-life balance. The good news is that every choice like this takes me one step closer.

One of the main things I have learned in the workplace is that if you want to be heard, speak up. Don’t rely on others to anticipate or interpret your needs. Being assertive is best for everyone. It is the key to effective communication. It drives a productive and happy workplace.

At first I was surprised at the positive response I received when I just asked for something at work. If a request is within reason, others are usually happy to oblige. I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised; this advice is centuries old.

“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” (Matthew 7:7)

Now go ask, seek and knock. Get what you want out of life. Live the life you want.