I'm Mrs. Oh My Gosh That Brittny's Shameless

The Nearest Faraway Place

That’s where I want to be.

I’m not exactly sure where that is for me. Bahrain? Dubai? Heck, I’d settle for on the couch watching a King of Queens.

Once again I’m working on the weekend. This is the 3rd weekend in a row, and the 4th time in 5 weeks.

I’m not sure if you’ve noticed or not (HA), but I’m starting to sound a bit like a work martyr.

Can I just tell you how much those people SERIOUSLY annoy me!?

They come around your office all huffy and start touching stuff on your desk as they proceed to tell you HOW

INCREDIBLY

BUSY

THEY

ARE.

“I’m so stressed.

I’m so overworked.

I stayed at the office until 9:00 last night.

I’m SO IMPORTANT AND IRREPLACEABLE.

I can never go on vacation because I’m SO IMPORTANT.”

Sigh, sigh, sigh, boo hoo, etc.

Those type of people make me want to create a paper airplane out of my timesheet and fly it right into their freaking forehead.

Can I just say something? If someone has to tell you all those things about how important and stressed they are, they’re probably not.

However-

I realized last night that I’m sort of starting to sound like that, and trust me, I’m not important.

Are you guys getting your paper airplanes ready every time you see “This Isn’t CTU” is assigned at the bottom of my posts because you know it’s about work? Hey- I wouldn’t blame you.

This week had been a nightmare. It’s left me wondering if this is how life is in this field, or if it’s just my crazy company.

I don’t know what I want to do. I think next week I’m going to go into my manager’s office and really level with him and ask him if this is how life is in this field. If the answer is yes, I’m going to have to really think about whether or not this is a field I enjoy enough to sacrifice a large amount of down time for. If Will and I ever decide to have a family one day, I’m not going to want to feel incredibly guilty for leaving at 5 everyday like a normal person. I won’t want to feel guilty for “letting the team down” by taking a vacation. I feel that way now and I don’t like it. It will only be worse with kids one day. My heart hurts not seeing Will too. On normal week nights we only have one hour together, and lately we haven’t had even that.

I don’t even know where to begin!

The sheer thought of trying to verbalize everything I want to say and at the same time maintain some anonymity exhausts me.

I’ll just say that this week has been a bad week! I’m tired of my department looking like freaking idiots. That’s another story, though.

Will and I got into an argument about the whole situation last night. See, you might remember that I recently moved into a new office (Remember? The one that’s a door closer to the BIDFY?). When I moved into this office I started working lots and lots on new things. I didn’t get a promotion, but I did get a raise. At the time, my managers also posted two positions that were the same level as the girl that I’m currently working with. Well, because of the pay and experience required (Ha- not to mention the fact that the job is in KUWAIT and no one is going to leave their cushy jobs in America for that) they’ve had a hard time filling them. So, they’ve sat open for months and have thrust me into the position of having to do a large majority of the job without the pay or title.

At the time it was called a “learning experience and training ground” for me. Honestly, it was. I truly consider this place my training ground. However, with all this weekend work and the added responsibilities that have continually been squeezed of me, I’m starting to feel that I should apply for one of those positions. I don’t want to get taken advantage of because I’m “learning” when in all actuality I’m “doing.”

Will has been on my case for weeks.

My mom has too.

So has my coworker friend.

So has Theresa.

Want to know a secret?

I’m terrified to apply.

Yep- a chicken.

I’ll admit it.

However, this week was the last straw. I almost threw my application at my boss yesterday! I didn’t, though.

The truth is that this job requires 3-5 years of experience and I only have one. However, I’ve been with this company for two years. I know the workings, I know the people, people know me. I know the job, and heck- I’ve been doing it for 6 months now whether I’ve got the experience on paper or not. If I’m good enough to be doing it anyway, why not at least be compensated?

That’s what Will says anyway.

I feel like I’m in a quandry, and all I want to do is run to the nearest faraway place.

I prayed about it and feel like the confirmations of others telling me to appy without me even bringing it up has been one reason I feel maybe I should apply. However, I still feel uncertain. I started reading Jonah the other day, and I keep thinking to myself, “What are you trying to tell me? Is this my Ninevah? Am I in Tarshish and am supposed to be somewhere else? I’m I reading WAY too much into this story and just need to chill out?” I want God to call me up on the phone, darn it. I guess the awkwardness of turning in my tiny little resume to someone who will have to turn around and say “no” makes me sick to my stomach.

Meanwhile, the work keeps coming and there seems to be no end in sight. Things are constantly coming our way and I’m anticipating many more added responsibilities.

Can I switch gears for a few minutes and tell you guys a little side story??

I’m going to tell you what put me over the edge yesterday, and oddly enough it has nothing to do with work really.

I always get dressed up for work. Honestly, I think it’s ridiculous to have to get so dressed up when it’s a million degrees and a stand storm is blowing the desert all around you at 50 mph- but I still do it. Anyhow, I always try to look nice at work. Half the people at my company are over 55, have gigantor beer bellies that hang from their short tight little polos that go oh-so nicely with their unbrushed teeth and 3 inch long neck hair protruding out of the collar. It has nothing to do with money, they get paid just fine. I would never ever in a million years say something like that out of an ugly heart- trust me. SO- keeping that in mind- Thursdays (my “Friday) I like to dress down a little. Yesterday I wore a pair of khaki cargo pants and a fitted AE tee. Nothing fancy, but also- not slobbish.

My boss comes in and starts telling me about a meeting we’re about to have. I asked him if I needed to do anything for it and he said, “I don’t know Brittny! I just don’t know! By the way, glad you can get dressed up for the meeting today!” and storms out.

That went all over me. Granted, we had a horrible morning dealing with a slew of different issues, but still- that doesn’t warrant such a comment, does it? It just made me so mad. I was already stressed because of work, and angry about having to come in today, and then that comment just really annoyed me. I can take work criticism, but why say something about how I’ve chosen to present myself to the world if it’s not necessary? You know?

Okay, so that was my side story.

Back to what I was talking about before…

All-in-all, I still think I might apply for this position for experience sake. It’s just a matter of getting the courage to bite the bullet and do it! I’ve been saying I’m going to for weeks but have been way too nervous to do it. I’m such a wimp sometimes. I hate that.

I’m sorry for droning on about work. That just seems to be my life right now and I feel as if I’m at a bit of a crossroads. Not a big one, but one that requires a decision. All I know is that I really want to go home today. Really, really badly. The more I’m stuck at work on my days off. The more I let this job dictate my schedule and change my routine… the more I skip going to the gym or forgetting to do things because I’m scattered… the more I begin to hate what I’m doing and I really don’t want that because I like what I’m doing. I just need a break from it sometimes.

All I want to do is run to the nearest faraway place today.

I’m back to work now. You can refrain from throwing those timesheet airplanes. 

Let’s just get straight down to business, shall we?  My dad has encouraged me to apply for any and every job that strikes my fancy, even if I don’t have the experience level that they are looking for.  He tells me that if it’s meant to be, it will be.  He also says that it is true they look at experience, but they also look at where you’ve been and what you’ve been doing.  And then he finishes up with “the worst that can happen is you won’t get the job.” And this is so true.  I know it’s easier said than done, but I thought it might help to put things into perspective. 

As for your job on the whole, are you even doing something related to your field of study in college?  I’m just curious is all.  Do you enjoy your job?  I mean really enjoy it, or is it just something to be doing in regards to your current situation?  Really ask yourself that and make sure you know the answer before you make any huge decisions.

That was really mean of your boss to say that to you!  I would have probably given him a sassy comeback.  Especially if he had a bad comb-over, British teeth, and dressed like a used car salesman...not saying that he does or anything...but, you never know.  I guess you could keep a neutral blazer-like jacket (you know something hip, trendy, but professional looking) in your cubicle to throw on over t-shirts in the event of a meeting on casual Thursday...that’s the only thing I can think of that would alleviate the situation where you boss comes in and jumps down your throat about dress.  But seriously...that’s way more dressed up than people get in my department at work. 

Ok, I’m going to go because this is long.  Just follow your heart and listen for the still, small voice, cause you and I both know that God doesn’t use the telephone often.  Love ya <3

Posted by Jacqueline  on  10/19  at  04:02 AM

I’m so glad you shared!  I know it’s hard sharing the nitty gritty sometimes, but dont you feel a little better because of it?  I’m sorry you’re feeling unsettled at work.  You’re in a hard situation.  I just thought of this, God does have a telephone book, His Word.  I’ve got this neat sheet of “emergency numbers” I kept with me at college.  I’ll find it and send a copy to you.  It helped me to remember we do have a direct line to God whenever we want it.  If I were in your situation I’d apply to the job (you already know this), but I’m not you and maybe because you’re so unsettled it’s not God’s will.  Maybe there’s something else just around the corner that you cant see yet that’s 100 million times better and more suitable for you and all this unsettlement (is that a word?) is God’s way of saying be still.  You are in my prayers.

Regarding the comment about your clothes ... I do hope he’s not one that wears the tiny polo shirts with the beer gut.  Further more!, if the meeting were so important he should have told you a day early so you’d know to dress up!  Your outfit sounds cute anyway, and I am sure you didnt make a bad impression because of it. 

By the way, I had a dream last night that Brad and I were visiting Oklahoma and we just happened to run into you in town (dont know what town, but it was a nice little town. =)) Maybe that’s a sign haha. wink

Have a lovely evening!

Posted by  on  10/19  at  06:11 AM

Boo!Well I’m certainly glad that you could get this off your chest and hopefully that helped just a little bit. I can’t believe you’re having to work so much overtime with zero copensation. That’s just not right. I agree with everyone else, Brittny. Go ahead and apply. Think of it the same way you thought of saying “hi” to your new best friends ever. What’s the worst that could happen? Sure...they tell you NO. I know that no one likes that feeling...but that’s not so bad. Think of how good it might be if they say yes.

I’m sorry you’ll be stuck at work this weekend...again. :(

Hope you’re feeling better soon!

Posted by Kristen  on  10/19  at  07:14 AM

Yuck yuck yuck.  Working on the weekends is so not cool.  I hate that you and Will are not getting to see each other very much.  I know how much that sucks. 
As for applying to the new position, don’t let the 3-5 years experience requirement keep you from applying.  I’ve worked in HR, and I have seen people with NO experience get hired for jobs that require a certain amount of time...just because of something silly like the person plays the same sport as the hiring manager!  With the experience you DO have and the fact that they KNOW you can do the job (obviously), coupled with the fact that it could take FOREVER to fill the position..I’m sure they will be more lenient on the “requirements” they have advertised.  It is too bad that God won’t just call us up on the phone and tell us what he wants though!  That would make life sooooo much easier!  rasberry Good luck with all of it.  Whatever you do, I hope it all works out for the best for you and Will.

Posted by  on  10/19  at  07:42 AM

I say go for it and apply for that job.  As much as they are overworking you anyway, you definitely deserve the raise and the promotion!!  I am sorry you have had to do that much weekend work, that really sucks.

Posted by Platinum Rose  on  10/19  at  08:14 AM

I will be praying for you and the decisions you need to make.  I understand where you’re coming from because at my last job we were constantly working OT and on the weekends.  I hated it!!!  It definitely brings down the morale at work.  Personally I think you should just apply for the job.  The worst thing that could happen is they say no and you’re still where you are today.  I hope the rest of you day goes or went by fast and that you can enjoy a few moments with Will! =)

Posted by  on  10/19  at  08:46 AM

I’d apply for the position if I were you.  Of course, I’m a witch, and if I didn’t get it, I’d tell them that either I am qualified for the position or I’m not, and if I’m not--well, then I’m CLEARLY not qualified to do all that extra work, either.  I just feel that you’re giving them a whole lot, and you deserve to be acknowledged for that. 

What I guess I mean is, it’s only a job.  You should be acknowledged for the amount of work you put in.  You won’t know if they will if you don’t apply.  If you don’t get it, then you should start looking to find ways to spend less time there and more time with the people that DO acknowledge you.

Posted by Ann M.  on  10/19  at  10:39 AM

Yup, you knew I’d comment on this one right!

OK, first of all.  APPLY ALREADY!  I mean, you’re already doing the work, so you might as well get the pay and the title too.  It’s not like you’re applying for a job at another company or trying to leave the area.  you won’t even be switching desks!  What’s the worst that happens?  You don’t get it—and maybe you consider moving on elsewhere at some point where you would get what you deserve.

As to the “comment” made by your boss.  Next time he says that, confront him.  “What do you mean by that?”.  I’ve noticed (especially in our worlds) that often time times men will say things to women that they won’t say to men.  Especially younger women.  They view us more as “little girls” or feel they can intimidate us or that we’ll be all meek and not speak up.  I’m not saying to get smart back, or get a fight going, but don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself and when he “apologizes” or says “I’m stressed” tell him, that’s fine, but it’s no reason to take it out on you.

Hang in there!!!  I hope it gets better soon.

Posted by  on  10/19  at  11:07 AM

I’m sorry you’re having such a hard time at work lately. I hate having to go into work on my days off and it’s only for a couple of hours but it’s right in the middle of the day!

I say apply for the job. Like everybody else said the worst that can happen is that you don’t get it. And if you don’t then you know the job wasn’t meant for you. But there’s always that chance that you will get it! Go for it!

Good luck with your decision. I’ll be praying for you.

Posted by  on  10/19  at  04:34 PM

Go for it, Brittny! Like everyone and their mom has already said, the worst that can happen is that you won’t get it! They’re already working you to death, it sounds like, and that’s just not fair. Don’t let them take advantage of you, especially without the pay. smile

I know it will work out, sweetie - keep us updated, and good luck!

Posted by Amber  on  10/19  at  04:58 PM

I was in a very similar situation.  For almost two years I have been doing the work of a controller, but I without the title or pay.  I never said anything, just went with the flow.  After the controller was fired I assumed even more resposibilities.  Unfortunately, no one seemed to notice (or so it seemed).  I was devestated when they hired the replacement from outside of the company.  It was so irritating because I knew more than him, could do it faster, and he got the credit for my work (or so it seemed).  But, finally finally finally things have changed.  Two days ago I was offered a position as the assistant controller.  I think part of my problem and the company’s reluctance in promoting me is that they had no idea that I even wanted a position with more responsibility!  So, make it known....in giant pink letters that you want that job and say it over and over again.

Oh, the comment about your clothing choice?  That is super crappy.  Your boss may benefit from a little nap during the day.  I would think he will be in a noticably better mood after a little hour long snooze.

Good Luck!

Posted by Dee  on  10/21  at  09:23 AM

Wow girl!!! You have been working way too much!!! I think you need to apply for the job that you seem to be doing already!!! How could they say no to you????

Posted by  on  10/21  at  03:30 PM

Sorry you’re busy!!  :(

Go for the position!!  Good luck!  smile

Posted by JessPond  on  10/21  at  04:20 PM

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Posted by OdessaBARTLETT31  on  01/17  at  04:58 AM

About

brittny I'm B-Love. I've just returned to America after spending three years in Kuwait with my husband Mr. B-Love and our two maltese, Boz and Lucy. We recently added two more doggies to our family, Rocky and Teddy. I love weight training, OU football, and lazy weekends. Buckle up and get ready for my constant embarrassing moments, continual madness at a new job, and my daily effort to rely on Christ while adjusting to life back in the real world.


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