As I spent 10 years in education and the next 25 as a solopreneur, I clearly have no idea the office dynamics that exist. Wow. I read every word, giggled plenty and sighed dozens of exhales of relief that I never had to put up with any of this.
Ryan, this was a delightful read! It struck me how each personality you described isn't just about individual quirks, but also about the roles we slip into. Sometimes I wonder if we’re assigned these characters by the workplace itself, a stage play where we take on parts without fully realizing it. I’ve certainly felt like "Tom, The Buffering People-Pleaser" at times, wanting everyone to feel heard and happy, but in doing so, maybe slowing things down. It’s a strange balance, isn’t it? How much of who we are at work is us, and how much is the costume we wear to survive? And more importantly, how do we keep from letting those costumes stick too tightly, so we don't forget who we truly are beneath it all?
That’s such a thoughtful reflection. Thank you. I like how you framed work as a stage where we unconsciously assume roles. It is like that, isn’t it? I’ve worn a few of those “costumes” myself. I also appreciate your question: how do we stay connected to who we are without getting lost in who we feel we’re supposed to be? Not so easy.
OMG this was so fun! You completely nailed all the personality types. But don't forget whose really in charge....it's ALWAYS the assistant to the President.
As I spent 10 years in education and the next 25 as a solopreneur, I clearly have no idea the office dynamics that exist. Wow. I read every word, giggled plenty and sighed dozens of exhales of relief that I never had to put up with any of this.
Ha, learning to navigate office personalities is challenging and a requirement of surviving and thriving in corporate life.
Ryan, this was a delightful read! It struck me how each personality you described isn't just about individual quirks, but also about the roles we slip into. Sometimes I wonder if we’re assigned these characters by the workplace itself, a stage play where we take on parts without fully realizing it. I’ve certainly felt like "Tom, The Buffering People-Pleaser" at times, wanting everyone to feel heard and happy, but in doing so, maybe slowing things down. It’s a strange balance, isn’t it? How much of who we are at work is us, and how much is the costume we wear to survive? And more importantly, how do we keep from letting those costumes stick too tightly, so we don't forget who we truly are beneath it all?
That’s such a thoughtful reflection. Thank you. I like how you framed work as a stage where we unconsciously assume roles. It is like that, isn’t it? I’ve worn a few of those “costumes” myself. I also appreciate your question: how do we stay connected to who we are without getting lost in who we feel we’re supposed to be? Not so easy.
Can't wipe the grin off of my face...
So glad to hear. I needed to write something funny for a change.
OMG this was so fun! You completely nailed all the personality types. But don't forget whose really in charge....it's ALWAYS the assistant to the President.
So glad you enjoyed these, Susan. Yes, 100%.
Wow. The creativity behind this piece is remarkable. I have no other words, Ryan! Thank you for sharing!
I'm glad you liked it, Jimmy. I had a ton of fun writing it.