Today I'm starting a running list of things I've learned from others' mistakes. Its a list I've been keeping in my head for a while now but its getting too long to remember. Consider it my gift to you. A gift born of bitterness, of the paying of dues, of whining. But also a gift of love - Who knows, it may prevent you and I from becoming total jerks. (?)
Well, At Least I'll Never Do That:
- I will not call my assistant at 8am and then be 30 minutes late. I will also not call my assistant at 8am unless there's something for them to do.
- I will try with every fiber of my being to never respond with, "Jesus fucking Christ."
- I will not make my assistant pick anything up from the printer for me/ walk across the room to deliver anything to anyone else for me/ ask people stressful questions in my stead/ throw things away for me/ wipe my ass for me. Unless I am suddenly paralyzed. Or my arms and legs spontaneously fall off.
- I will not become lazy when using an assistant.
- I will not charge my assistant for his/ her own lunch when I send them out to pick up food for both of us.
- I will do my very best to give clear, concise direction and feedback.
- I will not, by remaining silent when at fault, let my assistant take the blame.
- I will always show up when I said I will. I will not leave people to their own devices, especially when they need me there to teach or make decisions.
- Most importantly, I will try my hardest to always remember be kind.
Any other things you've learned from higher-ups never to do? Feel free to add to the list!