From a Few Invaluable Experiences
I worked numerous jobs, and over the years I’ve gained quite a few skill sets. And what I’ve precariously learned, is that I am my own business. Think about it; the time and the work I put in under employment, is also the time I’ve conditioned myself and built confidence in that experience. There are certain details you learn from each and every employer, down to the nitty-gritty. Experiences I’ve been exposed to, from mopping tiled floors to updating websites for board members. Jobs that required immediate action—a sense of urgency. Yet, other fields that require preparation, analytical work. However, it took me quite some time to realize this and I am in the early stages of this innovative thought process. So, I’ll share a thang or two on what I’ve learned from different jobs and as the old adage goes, “it’s what you make it”.
“Add It To The Toolbox”
During my four years in the Marine Corps, I’ve always come across the phrase, “Add it to the toolbox”. Even during boot camp as a naive recruit, my drill instructor (the knowledge hat one), would give the platoon a few pointers on how to handle a rifle for drill. Invaluable knowledge, telling us boys, treat the rifle with respect as you would with your girl—now add that information to your toolbox. Scrolling pass the semi-objectifying analogy, one of my Sergeants advised, take all the traits you value from leadership, and add it to your personal toolbox.
In this crafty metaphor, the toolbox is my mind, and I have the choice to reference past advice. Advice I choose to hold in my head. Yet I’ve learned, even as tools go bad, so does advice, information. Every situation is unique, and it’s up to me on what tools I utilize to troubleshoot it. The more tools in the toolbox, the more options. But I also relish the fact of keeping the toolbox decluttered and organized.
“Observe and Report”
There are moments I’ve learned, I can not intervene in every situation—especially a hostile one. Sometimes standing firm and silent is the best way to de-escalate a hostile situation. A tactic I’ve learned while doing security.
It was a surprise during orientation, when I was told as a security officer, I am only to observe and report. Ah, what an effective methodology. If I were to have actually practiced this during my 20’s, I’d be completing my master’s right now. Unfortunately, I’ve learned this at the age of 23, and ten years later I’m realizing how effective this is.
Some from the streets would say, I was being paid to snitch. Others would suggest, be selective in what information to share. It’s an art. However, the science behind it is to observe and take mental notes. Goes back to that military mentality; be situationally aware and notify your comrades on the useful information. Also for the record, one should report without the malicious intention to hurt anyone undeserving of it.
“What Will The Fruits Of My Work Yield”
As a factory worker in the industry of manufacturing ceramics, it was very important on how I’d set up shop. I would have to determine (if assigned on multiple machines), which machine to use and how to meet the number of parts to produce. I’d be mindful of what the environment would hold—hot or cold, determining the humidity of the setting.
If there was a lack of preparation, the parts I’d produce would come out poor in quality, or the machine would break down. Trust me, it’s a shame producing six hours worth of parts, then later being told they all had to get canned. That’s time, money wasted—pure counterproductivity.
I’ve learned how important it is to prepare. I remember during training in that industry, an instructor asked, what fruits will my work yield? What is my offering?
“Skill Sets To Be Utilized”
These are a few skill sets I’ve learned over the years from invaluable experiences. Added to my personal brand, from the fruits of my labor.
