Advice about ongoing unpaid overtime and work stress

[mariole]

Hi, my friends! I'm up writing at 3:30 in the morning because I have a tension ball in my stomach and can't sleep. A wonderful situation at work turned on its head. Any advice regarding my mistakes and situation is very welcome. And listen, feel free to tell me what a jerk I've been, because I am not blameless in this mess I've made for myself. I'm

Comments

[cookiefleck]

First of all, you didn't do anything "wrong." Okay, so you lost your cool, after provocation. Big la de dah. I wish I had a nickel for everyone who has done that, including me. Obviously not the correct way to handle problems in the workplace, but not the huge thing they are making it out to be and certainly not worthy of major career repercussions. It only becomes a "big deal" because you spouted off to someone with more influence, and who is of a vindictive nature, perhaps inclined to fan the flames

[cookiefleck]

Looking over some of the other advice here... I want to add that it's not generally a good strategy for an employee to act or think in adversarial or defensive or protective mode. Rarely will an employee come out ahead in any way using that approach (unless there is a very strong discrimination case or worker's comp case in the offing). Being "liked" rather than being "right" is the key to successfully diffusing any negative perception. In general, it's best to let the bad stuff go entirely and recede in everyone's memory. (Suck it up if necessary and) address any perceived/voiced performance issues with maturity, and stealthily work to change perceptions (reference my pm).

[mariole]

I have been following your advice-- ALL of your advice-- very closely for the last two days. I believe it's serving me well

[cookiefleck]

I've been glad to offer my two cents, but all credit goes to you and your attitude (e.g., your ability to assess objectively and regroup as necessary, etc.). I don't think you necessarily need to bring anything up to the big boss in the immediate future unless you think something was left hanging. Your positive teamworky approach going forward will say volumes by example. I'm pulling for you to dazzle next week.

[mariole]

I hope to do so! If it goes lousy....you'll hear! :D

Thanks again. Happy Sunday!