Day Fourteen- Off to Work

In many ways the work environment has changed.  More people are working from home or participating in a hybrid -half office/half home situation.  But then for the rest, it's work as usual.  
You get up, get dressed and spend the majority of your day with co-workers.  It is a different kind of "family" where you don't get to choose who you spend the bulk of your day with.  
All different backgrounds.  All different work styles. All different attitudes.  All different likes and dislikes.  Sometimes it works beautifully and the environment can be peaceful... sometimes downright pleasant.  Other times it can be irritating or even toxic.   Putting people together to accomplish specific tasks is always an adventure with several "unknown" factors that don't reveal themselves... until they do.  
Many times, we spend MORE time with our work family than we do our home family.  
It's helpful if each person does what they can to keep things at an even keel and do their best to get along with everyone else. 
We're all humans, right?  We have that same ribbon of humanity woven through us and we have a deep longing to belong, no matter what face we put out front. 
Today's challenge is to do something nice for the people in your workspace. 
Bring a flowering plant or cut flowers in to brighten the place up.
Bring in homemade cookies or stop by the donut shop on your way in and grab a dozen.
If you see something that need to be do, just do it.  As long as it doesn't distract you from your job, just do it.
Compliment your co-workers.  They are away from their homes and families too. 
Leave an encouraging note in the breakroom.
Leave early from home, so you won't be late.  Be on time for your clients and be prepared.  These are ways of showing kindness as well. 
Smile. Greet each other.
Be easy to get along with... approachable. (When I say things like this it does not mean being a "doormat".  Kindness is no longer kindness when it is abused.  Being a kind person is not synonymous with being a "people pleaser"!  Make sure you have your boundaries in place. But you can do it with a smile! Lol!)
Romans 12:18 says (paraphrased) As much as is possible; as is under your control, live peaceably with others.  This one verse has held me accountable when the co-worker situation got tough.  A lot of biting my tongue and moving along! Lol. 
Do all that you can to be happy in your place of employment.  And if you love your job and the people you work with, this challenge isn't too tough.  Maybe the challenege is to "out do" your last act of kindness! Lol! 
And if it is a struggle to make yourself go to work every day, be sure to always look for the good.  The good in the people.  The good in the job.  The good in the fruits of your labors.  It's there... sometimes you might have to squint, but it's there. 
Have an amazing Day 14, friends!  Go be kind. 

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