Even though I hadn't commit to a New Year's resolution, I was still planning on doing something different this year.
Smiling more.
There are studies that say smiling more often actually makes you happier. You start to feel better and this simple action sends out feel-good endorphins throughout the body.
As I started this new lifestyle experiment, I looked around myself and my everyday encounters. The people that I seemed more attracted to (personality wise) all shared one thing in common. Their genuine smile.
I think about my favorite coworkers and why I look forward to working with them so much. My neighbors to the right of me always get more of my attention than the ones to the left. Some of the friends I hang out with more (unintentionally) I noticed are the ones that always have a good spirit and smiling. And last but not least, Anthony. Every time I introduce him to someone it's all eyes on him. Besides his perfect straight white teeth *jealous* people always admire him and his powerful smile. "Aww, your boyfriend is so nice. I like his smile," they'll say. Or, " Wow, you two match. Oh and is he always happy like that?" And most of the time it's, " I Love Anthony! He's always so positive and has a smile on his face! Do you guys even fight??"
He can't deny that his smile was a big contributing factor to the job he now has today. All he did and had to do was show those pearly whites and laugh few times during his interview. Okay, okay. Maybe not ALL he had to do, but I like to think it was most of what he did anyway.
It finally stuck to me. Everybody loves a happy person. Everyone likes to be surrounded with good people and positive vibes. So, what was wrong with me and why wasn't I getting the same reaction like Anthony?
Turns out I just wasn't smiling enough. Actually, looking back, I hardly smiled. I don't know what it was, but for some reason I got stuck with the "serious" face as soon as I hit my adult life. I guess when I entered the real world I thought smiling equaled vulnerability.
So here I am. A happy camper, a Mr. Rogers, and some colorful Teletubbies all mixed into one.
I would actually make an attempt to smile to every single body I came across all last month. Whether is was a dog walker, mail man, coffee barista, or a grumpy old man, I kept it up. And you know what? I felt and WAS happier. Even if the person wasn't responsive or showed any interest in smiling back, I still felt good knowing that I left behind my glowing aura of sunshine.
My problems didn't seems nearly as bad, my boss was more forgiving with me, strangers smiled back, people replied with hellos, I made a couple new friends, and life seemed a little more interesting.
I was more approachable. Coworkers that I haven't spoken to since I started my job 4 months ago all of a sudden warmed, eased and walked up to me.That was a pretty big accomplishment and had helped open more doors in the workplace.
A smile has the power to make people feel good, not only towards others, but with themselves as well. So, smile more often.
Showing posts with label manners. Show all posts
Showing posts with label manners. Show all posts
Friday, February 3, 2012
Friday, October 14, 2011
Who, me??
Stuck up.
Ahhh, yes. These 2 little words changed my life. (sort of....Definitely left an impact.)
The very first time I was called stuck up I was a freshman in high school. Fresh into my teenage years.....experiencing a different side of life.
This boy liked me and asked this classmate of his ( Monique....I will never forget her!) how to approach me.
"Why?? Why do you like Michelle? She's ugly and acts stuck up!" This was her delightful answer.
Well, to much of Monique's surprise we winded up becoming each other's first "girlfriend/boyfriend" relationship....and it was great! We were so happy and lovey dovey. So naturally my boyfriend had told me what Monique had thought of me later in time.
I was in total shock to tell the truth. And not at the fact that she called me ugly......but the fact that she thought I was stuck up. That word (or words) in my mind was defined as someone that was pretty and thought too highly of herself not giving anyone the time of day. I was confused....is this how people saw me as? Or just her? What made me look so stuck-upish anyway??
You know, growing up as a kid when you're quiet it's perceived as being shy. That's all I was....shy. I was new to the whole high school scene, trying to make new friends, shy around cute boys, kept to myself, and stayed away from trouble..... I was just quiet little Michelle. Now Monique on the other hand....she was...well.....definitely not my type of crowd let's just put it that way. Spanish was her first language so I knew she was always talking crap about me to her little clique as my boyfriend and I would happily trollop through the school halls.
Anyway...........
Every since then it seemed like she jinxed me! Maybe puberty created this weird aura that gave off a "stuck up" vibe, but that's all I started to hear the rest of my high school years.
Whenever I made friends and our relationship grew and got closer, my friends would later on reveal that they always thought I was stuck up. They were intimidated by me and didn't know what to think or expect.
What??? How is this possible? Here I am, nerdy video game, cartoon loving girl......all of a sudden transformed into some bitchy looking teenager. Hmmm...must of been the makeup. I did start experimenting with eyeliners and dark eyeshadow..... Maybe this created some shadow effect that made me appear more on the dark side.
So, that little section of my life has always stuck with me. I'm glad it happened (and sometimes still does from time to time) so that way I can improve my first impressions. They say that first impressions are crucial and are determined within the first 90 seconds of introduction.
With me starting my new job this week I really made sure I looked sweet as a doll. I had my orientation the last couple of days so I went around asking my friends and coworkers how to look more approachable/likable/warm/welcoming.....etc.
Boy, did they give it to me!-------
"Yeah, don't wear your hair in a bun. Actually don't even slick it back. You look like... mean. If all possible, wear it loose and free flowing. It's more relaxed and easier on the eyes that way."
"Don't wear your black bold liquid eyeliner. Makes you look intimidating. Stick to a soft brown pencil, skipping the tear line."
"Smile showing your teeth. When you smile with your lips closed it looks fake and some what condescending."
"Don't cross your legs. Keep them down and just cross the feet. This way you don't look so "in demand" and too aggressive."
"Wear a nice warm blush. This will brighten up your face and make your smile look warmer and genuine."
"Wear a nice soft color under your black blazer. Black on black looks too serious."
"Straighten your hair. When you wear it curly it looks somewhat wild and unpredictable. You wanna go for the sweet 'girl next door' look."
"Don't wear any flashy jewelry. Keep it minimum with only 1 ring, and 1 watch, no dangling earrings. Skip the perfume or only use 1 spritz. Just 1!"
"Look engaged and keep good eye contact. Don't look around the room or seem uninterested. Focus on the people interacting with you and try to remember their name! This will leave a great impression."
So......yeah. There I had it. I followed their advice....and I feel everything went smooth. I actually made a couple of new work friends already. I move fast...networking is crucial as you get older.... :)
It is funny how a simple smile can change someone's impression of you, however. Example- There was this other girl in my orientation class. She didn't smile at all throughout the day...or week. She had black bold eyeliner throughout her lids, wearing an all black suit, and kept her arms and legs crossed teh whole time (but her hair was down and straight.) My first impression wasn't that she was stuck up (because we were all quiet and nervous like any normal person would), but that was my ending impression of her. We left and made our way out the door. She was walking in my direction, but avoiding eye contacting (because I held the door open for her) and she just looked right past me (actually down at her dumb phone....pretending she was checking her messages.) No "thank you", no small weak thank you smile, nothing. "Uhh, snooty." I thought to myself. Yeah, had she carried a smile on her....she would've have been a lot more approachable and maybe wouldn't have winded up eating at the lunch table alone....Just saying. Glad I saw it from an outsider's perspective.
Good thing I learned and got my "How-not- to- look- stuck- up" 101 crash course from friends...Now I will be smiling all day everyday....with my hair down.....and not as much eyeliner...
Do you have a secret to giving a great first impression with strangers? :)
Ahhh, yes. These 2 little words changed my life. (sort of....Definitely left an impact.)
The very first time I was called stuck up I was a freshman in high school. Fresh into my teenage years.....experiencing a different side of life.
This boy liked me and asked this classmate of his ( Monique....I will never forget her!) how to approach me.
"Why?? Why do you like Michelle? She's ugly and acts stuck up!" This was her delightful answer.
Well, to much of Monique's surprise we winded up becoming each other's first "girlfriend/boyfriend" relationship....and it was great! We were so happy and lovey dovey. So naturally my boyfriend had told me what Monique had thought of me later in time.
I was in total shock to tell the truth. And not at the fact that she called me ugly......but the fact that she thought I was stuck up. That word (or words) in my mind was defined as someone that was pretty and thought too highly of herself not giving anyone the time of day. I was confused....is this how people saw me as? Or just her? What made me look so stuck-upish anyway??
You know, growing up as a kid when you're quiet it's perceived as being shy. That's all I was....shy. I was new to the whole high school scene, trying to make new friends, shy around cute boys, kept to myself, and stayed away from trouble..... I was just quiet little Michelle. Now Monique on the other hand....she was...well.....definitely not my type of crowd let's just put it that way. Spanish was her first language so I knew she was always talking crap about me to her little clique as my boyfriend and I would happily trollop through the school halls.
Anyway...........
Every since then it seemed like she jinxed me! Maybe puberty created this weird aura that gave off a "stuck up" vibe, but that's all I started to hear the rest of my high school years.
Whenever I made friends and our relationship grew and got closer, my friends would later on reveal that they always thought I was stuck up. They were intimidated by me and didn't know what to think or expect.
What??? How is this possible? Here I am, nerdy video game, cartoon loving girl......all of a sudden transformed into some bitchy looking teenager. Hmmm...must of been the makeup. I did start experimenting with eyeliners and dark eyeshadow..... Maybe this created some shadow effect that made me appear more on the dark side.
So, that little section of my life has always stuck with me. I'm glad it happened (and sometimes still does from time to time) so that way I can improve my first impressions. They say that first impressions are crucial and are determined within the first 90 seconds of introduction.
With me starting my new job this week I really made sure I looked sweet as a doll. I had my orientation the last couple of days so I went around asking my friends and coworkers how to look more approachable/likable/warm/welcoming.....etc.
Boy, did they give it to me!-------
"Yeah, don't wear your hair in a bun. Actually don't even slick it back. You look like... mean. If all possible, wear it loose and free flowing. It's more relaxed and easier on the eyes that way."
"Don't wear your black bold liquid eyeliner. Makes you look intimidating. Stick to a soft brown pencil, skipping the tear line."
"Smile showing your teeth. When you smile with your lips closed it looks fake and some what condescending."
"Don't cross your legs. Keep them down and just cross the feet. This way you don't look so "in demand" and too aggressive."
"Wear a nice warm blush. This will brighten up your face and make your smile look warmer and genuine."
"Wear a nice soft color under your black blazer. Black on black looks too serious."
"Straighten your hair. When you wear it curly it looks somewhat wild and unpredictable. You wanna go for the sweet 'girl next door' look."
"Don't wear any flashy jewelry. Keep it minimum with only 1 ring, and 1 watch, no dangling earrings. Skip the perfume or only use 1 spritz. Just 1!"
"Look engaged and keep good eye contact. Don't look around the room or seem uninterested. Focus on the people interacting with you and try to remember their name! This will leave a great impression."
So......yeah. There I had it. I followed their advice....and I feel everything went smooth. I actually made a couple of new work friends already. I move fast...networking is crucial as you get older.... :)
It is funny how a simple smile can change someone's impression of you, however. Example- There was this other girl in my orientation class. She didn't smile at all throughout the day...or week. She had black bold eyeliner throughout her lids, wearing an all black suit, and kept her arms and legs crossed teh whole time (but her hair was down and straight.) My first impression wasn't that she was stuck up (because we were all quiet and nervous like any normal person would), but that was my ending impression of her. We left and made our way out the door. She was walking in my direction, but avoiding eye contacting (because I held the door open for her) and she just looked right past me (actually down at her dumb phone....pretending she was checking her messages.) No "thank you", no small weak thank you smile, nothing. "Uhh, snooty." I thought to myself. Yeah, had she carried a smile on her....she would've have been a lot more approachable and maybe wouldn't have winded up eating at the lunch table alone....Just saying. Glad I saw it from an outsider's perspective.
Good thing I learned and got my "How-not- to- look- stuck- up" 101 crash course from friends...Now I will be smiling all day everyday....with my hair down.....and not as much eyeliner...
Do you have a secret to giving a great first impression with strangers? :)
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Debbie Downer
"I don't feel like being here."
"I'm so tired."
"I hate work."
"I can't wait to get out of this place."
"I hate my job."
"These people are annoying me."
These are just one of the many phrases I try to avoid when I'm at work. Why? Let's face it, no one likes a Debbie Downer. People naturally sway or favor the positive one or the one that brings up the spirit. The downer is never happy with anything and just brings the energy level way down .........way way down.
I have to admit. The last 2 weeks I've been a D.D (debbie downer) and I had to stop myself right away. I noticed that if I came in with a bad attitude it rubbed off onto my friends and coworkers as well. Having a bunch of grouchy people don't make a healthy work environment, I tell ya.
I know sometimes it's hard to keep a smiling face, believe me (especially when you work in any type of customer service industry.) But I sat back and thought about exactly why I like working with the certain individuals that I do. What attracts me to them and why are they favored over others?The answer was somewhat simple- they had a positive attitude. There was always a smile on their face. These individuals are always willing to lend a helping hand, they never pawn off their work to others, they never talk bad about their coworkers and don't really participate much in personal gossip. Bashing work just isn't their forte and if it was then they knew it was time to look elsewhere. My team is always looking out for the goodness of each other as a unit and don't believe in everyman for themselves. This is what I like about them. :)
I try to incorporate the same attitude day in and day out. I think I've just been over working myself to the point that my energy level was quickly sinking before I could get it back up. No worries though. I'm back to normal......and happy as can be. Even though work has it's stressful moments I keep reminding myself that this is what's feeding my sushi addiction. That usually straightens me back to reality and places that smile on my face. :)
"I'm so tired."
"I hate work."
"I can't wait to get out of this place."
"I hate my job."
"These people are annoying me."
These are just one of the many phrases I try to avoid when I'm at work. Why? Let's face it, no one likes a Debbie Downer. People naturally sway or favor the positive one or the one that brings up the spirit. The downer is never happy with anything and just brings the energy level way down .........way way down.
I have to admit. The last 2 weeks I've been a D.D (debbie downer) and I had to stop myself right away. I noticed that if I came in with a bad attitude it rubbed off onto my friends and coworkers as well. Having a bunch of grouchy people don't make a healthy work environment, I tell ya.
I know sometimes it's hard to keep a smiling face, believe me (especially when you work in any type of customer service industry.) But I sat back and thought about exactly why I like working with the certain individuals that I do. What attracts me to them and why are they favored over others?The answer was somewhat simple- they had a positive attitude. There was always a smile on their face. These individuals are always willing to lend a helping hand, they never pawn off their work to others, they never talk bad about their coworkers and don't really participate much in personal gossip. Bashing work just isn't their forte and if it was then they knew it was time to look elsewhere. My team is always looking out for the goodness of each other as a unit and don't believe in everyman for themselves. This is what I like about them. :)
I try to incorporate the same attitude day in and day out. I think I've just been over working myself to the point that my energy level was quickly sinking before I could get it back up. No worries though. I'm back to normal......and happy as can be. Even though work has it's stressful moments I keep reminding myself that this is what's feeding my sushi addiction. That usually straightens me back to reality and places that smile on my face. :)
Do you have any D.D at work? Maybe you've been a downer yourself. If so, what did you do or how did you deal with it?
Friday, July 8, 2011
I don't share, sorry
I had this friend in high school. She always had this thing where she refused to drink out of anyone else's cup/bottle/glass. If you offered her a piece of your food you better make sure it's before you take that first bite. Once that bite has struck, the offer was not valid anymore. This girl would rather go through dehydration for the school day then to share some ice cold refreshing water from you. She always tried to remind us how we shouldn't take it personally and that it was something she does with everybody, even her own family. My friend told us that we should be cautious of who we think have "clean" mouths because now a days you never know, especially high school kids with their raging hormones...... She had a point. *blank stare*
Fast forward a couple months later just right before our high school graduation....
I was talking to my friend and she shared a little interesting story. This girl that I never really cared for knows this other girl that my friend is friends with (you follow? :) Turns out this girl got mono from this boy she hooked up with. This girl shares her food, soda, lip gloss, everything with the other girl that's friends with my friend. Well, now my friend's friend was going to get tested for it too and worried that she had caught some awful disease. And as far as my friend and I go?? .................Good thing we took our friend's advice and this story stuck had stuck with us every since......
So, next time a coworker asks to get a sip of that delicious boboa drink you brought in to work to satisfy their curiosity......*DENY!*
Fast forward a couple months later just right before our high school graduation....
I was talking to my friend and she shared a little interesting story. This girl that I never really cared for knows this other girl that my friend is friends with (you follow? :) Turns out this girl got mono from this boy she hooked up with. This girl shares her food, soda, lip gloss, everything with the other girl that's friends with my friend. Well, now my friend's friend was going to get tested for it too and worried that she had caught some awful disease. And as far as my friend and I go?? .................Good thing we took our friend's advice and this story stuck had stuck with us every since......
So, next time a coworker asks to get a sip of that delicious boboa drink you brought in to work to satisfy their curiosity......*DENY!*
Friday, May 6, 2011
Can I just say..............
So, I'm paying for my stuff at the store and I tell the cashier I need to make a return. Here's the actual conversation-
cashier- *ringing my 3 items up* (mascara, bananas, and the new olay face scrubber machine thingy)
me- Hi, good evening. I would like to exchange this (box of hair dye.) *trying to quickly alert her of my exchange as she's racing to hurry and get my things into the bag to therefor have us quickly exist the line*
cashier- Um, ok. *looking confused*
me- So, if I could just use this return as a credit towards my total since I don't have the receipt with me.
cashier- Yeah.......I can return it for you.
me- Yeah, that's what I would like to do. *waiting for her to finish my transaction*
cashier- Ok, but I was suppose to ring this up in the beginning of the transaction not the end.
me- Ooookkaayy, so what are you saying? You just said you could return it for me?
cashier- Yeah, I can return for you......
me- *getting confused and frustrated now*
Anthony- I think she means she can return it by giving you a store credit for future use.
me- Oh, no....I meant I would like to return it and use the credit towards my total, please. *isn't that what I said in the first place??*
cashier- *lets out a big ol siiiiggghhhh* Well, I was suppose to ring it up in the beginning. *as if repeating herself would persuade me into taking a store credit*
me- *now getting irritated by her laziness * Okaaaaay, so then void out the 3 items you rang up and re-ring up my return in the beginning. Isn't that what you're saying??
cashier- *now pissed off at me because I'm having her do 'more' work and starts pounding her key board as if this will help the situation.* hey, whatever relieves her stress I guess. :P She's now siighing with a slight grunt mixed in with it*
cashier-* still pounding keys and grunting* Hold on while I get someone to void these out for me.
me- *thinking in my head- Really?? They don't have the empowerment to void out/off transactions?? Pretty sad if you ask me*
cashier- *shouting across to the other cashier*- 'Debbie!! When you get a chance I need your code to void these out. Sorry to be a pain!!
*hey I'm not dumb. I caught her subliminal message.*
me- *ooohhh, ok. So she wants to be a little smart wench face* Oh! I'm sorry. I wasn't trying to be a pain. I didn't think it was going to be any trouble for you since I'm the only one in line. I totally understand you're in a hurry and have other work to do.....*like being the cashier you are!!!!!!*
cashier- ...............................waits like 30 seconds to reply* ......It's ok.
me- Good. *fake smile*
cashier- *gets the code and redoes my transaction, but now she's practically throwing my merchandise and pounding them into the bag.
me- Again, I apologize for the inconvenience. I didn't know this one return would be so much work for you. *playing a fake empathy role*
cashier-..................*waits 30 seconds again until she replies with*----- Oh, it's fine *in her fake lie*
cashier- You're total is $33.48.
me- *swipes my card*
cashier- hands the receipt to me
me- I receive the receipt and make an attempt to grab my bags. (especially making sure she didn;t squish my bananas.)
cashier- *now contemplating on whether she should end the awkwardness with a fake "goodnight" or "have a good night."
Anthony- Thank you, miss. *grabbing the bags*
cashier- Oh, you're welcome. It was no trouble at all. Have a goodnight. *why is she lying??*
me- *humph, I squeeze out a fake- "you too."*
If this conversation doesn't make sense, I'm sorry. I'm writing out of anger and deep frustration right now. My wrath may need to be cooled down a bit in order to recollect my thoughts. It's just one of those scenarios where you had to be there to get the full picture.
Pretty much lazy lady doesn't want to do my return, assumes I know their transaction policies, and acts like its MY fault I'm unconvincing her because she doesn't have access to the stupid code that screams- we don't trust our associates so they need to be babied with every move they do on the register.
Oh jolly. One of the many "pleasures" of shopping at Wal-Mart. I just don't know which is more enjoyable: The shopping experience, the food, and the "wonderful" customer service they offer or having a cat sink their teeth into me as they are slowly dragging their body down my thigh with their sharp long claws. .....Hmmm.......I'll have to think about that one............
cashier- *ringing my 3 items up* (mascara, bananas, and the new olay face scrubber machine thingy)
me- Hi, good evening. I would like to exchange this (box of hair dye.) *trying to quickly alert her of my exchange as she's racing to hurry and get my things into the bag to therefor have us quickly exist the line*
cashier- Um, ok. *looking confused*
me- So, if I could just use this return as a credit towards my total since I don't have the receipt with me.
cashier- Yeah.......I can return it for you.
me- Yeah, that's what I would like to do. *waiting for her to finish my transaction*
cashier- Ok, but I was suppose to ring this up in the beginning of the transaction not the end.
me- Ooookkaayy, so what are you saying? You just said you could return it for me?
cashier- Yeah, I can return for you......
me- *getting confused and frustrated now*
Anthony- I think she means she can return it by giving you a store credit for future use.
me- Oh, no....I meant I would like to return it and use the credit towards my total, please. *isn't that what I said in the first place??*
cashier- *lets out a big ol siiiiggghhhh* Well, I was suppose to ring it up in the beginning. *as if repeating herself would persuade me into taking a store credit*
me- *now getting irritated by her laziness * Okaaaaay, so then void out the 3 items you rang up and re-ring up my return in the beginning. Isn't that what you're saying??
cashier- *now pissed off at me because I'm having her do 'more' work and starts pounding her key board as if this will help the situation.* hey, whatever relieves her stress I guess. :P She's now siighing with a slight grunt mixed in with it*
cashier-* still pounding keys and grunting* Hold on while I get someone to void these out for me.
me- *thinking in my head- Really?? They don't have the empowerment to void out/off transactions?? Pretty sad if you ask me*
cashier- *shouting across to the other cashier*- 'Debbie!! When you get a chance I need your code to void these out. Sorry to be a pain!!
*hey I'm not dumb. I caught her subliminal message.*
me- *ooohhh, ok. So she wants to be a little smart wench face* Oh! I'm sorry. I wasn't trying to be a pain. I didn't think it was going to be any trouble for you since I'm the only one in line. I totally understand you're in a hurry and have other work to do.....*like being the cashier you are!!!!!!*
cashier- ...............................waits like 30 seconds to reply* ......It's ok.
me- Good. *fake smile*
cashier- *gets the code and redoes my transaction, but now she's practically throwing my merchandise and pounding them into the bag.
me- Again, I apologize for the inconvenience. I didn't know this one return would be so much work for you. *playing a fake empathy role*
cashier-..................*waits 30 seconds again until she replies with*----- Oh, it's fine *in her fake lie*
cashier- You're total is $33.48.
me- *swipes my card*
cashier- hands the receipt to me
me- I receive the receipt and make an attempt to grab my bags. (especially making sure she didn;t squish my bananas.)
cashier- *now contemplating on whether she should end the awkwardness with a fake "goodnight" or "have a good night."
Anthony- Thank you, miss. *grabbing the bags*
cashier- Oh, you're welcome. It was no trouble at all. Have a goodnight. *why is she lying??*
me- *humph, I squeeze out a fake- "you too."*
If this conversation doesn't make sense, I'm sorry. I'm writing out of anger and deep frustration right now. My wrath may need to be cooled down a bit in order to recollect my thoughts. It's just one of those scenarios where you had to be there to get the full picture.
Pretty much lazy lady doesn't want to do my return, assumes I know their transaction policies, and acts like its MY fault I'm unconvincing her because she doesn't have access to the stupid code that screams- we don't trust our associates so they need to be babied with every move they do on the register.
Oh jolly. One of the many "pleasures" of shopping at Wal-Mart. I just don't know which is more enjoyable: The shopping experience, the food, and the "wonderful" customer service they offer or having a cat sink their teeth into me as they are slowly dragging their body down my thigh with their sharp long claws. .....Hmmm.......I'll have to think about that one............
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Food Scavenging Coworkers
Do you have that one coworker that mooches off people's food at work? That coworker is such a vulture that you have to write your name with a sharpie pen to protect your sandwich bag?? The fridge is an open field for first come first serve? Well, I have one of those as well.....her name is......Karina. Hahaha, she's going to either laugh or kill me when she finds out I dedicated this post to her. *Kisses, Karina* :)
The scenario- We just got into work and ready to start the day.....
Karina- Man, today is going to be a busy day at work. *sad face*
Me- I know! I'm dreading it already.
Karina- Did you bring your own lunch today?
Me- Yep.
Karina- What did you bring?
Me- Kimchi fried rice.
Karina- That sounds good..... Man, I was running late for work and I didn't get a chance to bring anything.
Me- That sucks.
Karina- Yeah, I know. Plus, I didn't get a chance to eat breakfast and I'm starving. *sighing*
I walk off to log into my computer as Karina wonders off to the associates' fridge. She then comes back a couple minutes later....
Me- Where did you go??
Karina- Oh.....just somewhere.
Me- Somewhere where?
Karina- I went to put my water bottle in the fridge.
Me- Oh yeah. If you drink lots of water throughout the day it helps you with hunger pangs.
Karina- Yeeeeaaah, well. I'm more in the mood for something more solid. Maybe I'll just eat whatever's in the fridge.
Me- What do you mean "whatever." You said you didn't bring your lunch.
Karina- Yeah, I know......
Me -*confused* Okkaaaayyy, so then what would you be looking for in the fridge??
Karina- For something to munch on while I figure out what I'm going to eat for lunch.
Me- You mean you're going to eat someone else's food??? Karina!! You can't do that??
Karina- Why not?? We all get along here and they won't notice if I take a little here and there.
Me- *chuckling* Wow, I can't believe you're just going to mooch off of somebody's stuff. That's just wrong. What if they go in the fridge looking for it tomorrow or something? Then what?? Or they notice some of it is missing?
Karina- Well, it'll be gone by then. I don't know, I was just going to snack on a couple of grapes that were in there. And someone left a cheese stick too. It's been sitting there for a week now. I'm sure nobody wants it by now.
Me- Hahaha, I can't believe you're serious. I know if the tables were turned you would be furious if someone took a bite out of your food.
Karina- Yeah, you're right......I would be pretty upset................Maybe that's why I don't put my food in there. Hahaha.
Me- Whatever....I'm just saying, I wouldn't do it. We have a vending machine downstairs. Just pop something out of there, like a hotpocket or something.
Karina- No. I saw this yogurt drink in the fridge. It looks really good. I want that.
Me- A yogurt drink?? Karina, you can't take that. I saw that it was just put in there yesterday! They're surely going to notice it gone right away!!
Karina- What if I took a sip from it??
Me- Are you serious??? Uh, well. They would notice because the sealed cap would be broken.......
Karina- Ohhhh, you're right. Good point. It looks so good though. It's calling my name. It's also strawberry banana flavor. My fav.
Me- Karina. Quit being a moocher and forget about the food in the fridge! Just start bringing your own food. That's crappy of you to think about sneaking bites from people's fruits and stuff.
Karina- Forget the fruits, I think I'm just going to take that yogurt drink. They'll never know it was me..... there's like 10 other people that use this fridge too.
Me- Just don't...
Karina- Why??
Me- Because....
Karina- 'Cause why??
Me- *giving a stern parental look* because that's wrong.....it's only been a victim in the fridge for 1 day! It is probably meant to be cconsumed by today. I'm sure of it.
Karina- Not if I take it right now....hahaha
Me- Oh, you wouldn't want to do that....
Karina- Why, dammit???
Me......................
Karina- *waiting for my answer*
Me- Because, Karina!!!!! Because........... that yogurt drink is mine!!!! Bwahahahahahahahahahahaha!!!!!
Karina- *silence*...........and...........*fail*
The scenario- We just got into work and ready to start the day.....
Karina- Man, today is going to be a busy day at work. *sad face*
Me- I know! I'm dreading it already.
Karina- Did you bring your own lunch today?
Me- Yep.
Karina- What did you bring?
Me- Kimchi fried rice.
Karina- That sounds good..... Man, I was running late for work and I didn't get a chance to bring anything.
Me- That sucks.
Karina- Yeah, I know. Plus, I didn't get a chance to eat breakfast and I'm starving. *sighing*
I walk off to log into my computer as Karina wonders off to the associates' fridge. She then comes back a couple minutes later....
Me- Where did you go??
Karina- Oh.....just somewhere.
Me- Somewhere where?
Karina- I went to put my water bottle in the fridge.
Me- Oh yeah. If you drink lots of water throughout the day it helps you with hunger pangs.
Karina- Yeeeeaaah, well. I'm more in the mood for something more solid. Maybe I'll just eat whatever's in the fridge.
Me- What do you mean "whatever." You said you didn't bring your lunch.
Karina- Yeah, I know......
Me -*confused* Okkaaaayyy, so then what would you be looking for in the fridge??
Karina- For something to munch on while I figure out what I'm going to eat for lunch.
Me- You mean you're going to eat someone else's food??? Karina!! You can't do that??
Karina- Why not?? We all get along here and they won't notice if I take a little here and there.
Me- *chuckling* Wow, I can't believe you're just going to mooch off of somebody's stuff. That's just wrong. What if they go in the fridge looking for it tomorrow or something? Then what?? Or they notice some of it is missing?
Karina- Well, it'll be gone by then. I don't know, I was just going to snack on a couple of grapes that were in there. And someone left a cheese stick too. It's been sitting there for a week now. I'm sure nobody wants it by now.
Me- Hahaha, I can't believe you're serious. I know if the tables were turned you would be furious if someone took a bite out of your food.
Karina- Yeah, you're right......I would be pretty upset................Maybe that's why I don't put my food in there. Hahaha.
Me- Whatever....I'm just saying, I wouldn't do it. We have a vending machine downstairs. Just pop something out of there, like a hotpocket or something.
Karina- No. I saw this yogurt drink in the fridge. It looks really good. I want that.
Me- A yogurt drink?? Karina, you can't take that. I saw that it was just put in there yesterday! They're surely going to notice it gone right away!!
Karina- What if I took a sip from it??
Me- Are you serious??? Uh, well. They would notice because the sealed cap would be broken.......
Karina- Ohhhh, you're right. Good point. It looks so good though. It's calling my name. It's also strawberry banana flavor. My fav.
Me- Karina. Quit being a moocher and forget about the food in the fridge! Just start bringing your own food. That's crappy of you to think about sneaking bites from people's fruits and stuff.
Karina- Forget the fruits, I think I'm just going to take that yogurt drink. They'll never know it was me..... there's like 10 other people that use this fridge too.
Me- Just don't...
Karina- Why??
Me- Because....
Karina- 'Cause why??
Me- *giving a stern parental look* because that's wrong.....it's only been a victim in the fridge for 1 day! It is probably meant to be cconsumed by today. I'm sure of it.
Karina- Not if I take it right now....hahaha
Me- Oh, you wouldn't want to do that....
Karina- Why, dammit???
Me......................
Karina- *waiting for my answer*
Me- Because, Karina!!!!! Because........... that yogurt drink is mine!!!! Bwahahahahahahahahahahaha!!!!!
Karina- *silence*...........and...........*fail*
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Fight for the fittest
You know one of the things that annoy me to death? Let me ask you this- When someone's working out at the gym and using a machine doesn't that obviously mean they're still using it?? Why do people (usually the elders) think that standing right in front or behind you will help speed up your workout process? Where's the degree in common courtesy? Today as I'm using the cable extensions, some guy walks up to me and asks if I'm still using it. Well, duh. If my hand is making contact with it and my body is aligned with the machine then that would only mean one thing.....I'm still on it! As I reply "yes" to him, he replies back with, "Ok, I'm going to use it when you're done." Ok......good for you, I guess...... *using my 'whatever' look*
Ummm, last time I checked the gym had no indication of a waiting list. It's first come first serve, is it not? It's as if the guy was expecting it to be my duty to make sure I had it reserved for him or something. So then I continue on with my arm workout. As I'm trying to focus on my last 2 sets I see him prancing around doing random exercises to kill his wait time. Come on, man. Couldn't you be a little more discreet then that?? I mean, I know you can do more than 10 pounds on that leg press and I'm pretty sure you can lift more than 5 pounds with that dumb bell. *ssiiigh*
So, I give in to this awkward pressure and decide to cut my set short. You know, I was trying to have common courtesy and I figured that this workout wasn't as important to me as it obviously is for this man. I stop mid way and walk off to my next exercise. Of course the man darts towards the machine like it's a $100 bill on the floor or something and starts his "workout."
Now as I'm doing some ab crunches I'm watching the man in the mirror (just because he happens to be behind me.)
Ummm, last time I checked the gym had no indication of a waiting list. It's first come first serve, is it not? It's as if the guy was expecting it to be my duty to make sure I had it reserved for him or something. So then I continue on with my arm workout. As I'm trying to focus on my last 2 sets I see him prancing around doing random exercises to kill his wait time. Come on, man. Couldn't you be a little more discreet then that?? I mean, I know you can do more than 10 pounds on that leg press and I'm pretty sure you can lift more than 5 pounds with that dumb bell. *ssiiigh*
So, I give in to this awkward pressure and decide to cut my set short. You know, I was trying to have common courtesy and I figured that this workout wasn't as important to me as it obviously is for this man. I stop mid way and walk off to my next exercise. Of course the man darts towards the machine like it's a $100 bill on the floor or something and starts his "workout."
Now as I'm doing some ab crunches I'm watching the man in the mirror (just because he happens to be behind me.)
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
I sit up to do my 5th crunch...............and guess what?????? The freaking dude is done!!!!!!! Are you *beeping* kidding me??? I got off the arm extensions so this old man can do 5 measly turns??? That's not even a full set of 10!! What kind of results is he going for??? The "waste your time and energy to piss people off" look??
Man, I was livid. I went out of my way to get off the machine early so he can go out of his way to jump in all for 5 puny turns?????? *aaaaggghhhh* That right there just set me off and ruined my whole gym workout for the morning. I had to run off my anger then call it a day.
Lesson learnt- Don't stop your exercises for anybody that cares to cut them short. They're obviously douches anyway to interrupt in the first place so play the douche role back and sit there for another 20 minutes while slowly sipping out of your water bottle after each and every turn. The end. :)
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Good, cheap, and dirty
How do you tip?
Being that I was a server for 5 years I consider myself a pretty good tipper. So, I feel that I fall under the "Good" tipping status. But there are two different types of good- To me good means you tip according to the service, and not relying on the total bill to help determine whatever amount you feel should be left. If you put on that fake smile, ask how my food tastes, and if you can get me anything else, you're pretty much in the clear.
Anthony is a good tipper as well. But he's a different good. His is in a sense that he tips 18%-20% regardless of how poor the service was. Now that's a pretty good tipper. Following the black book of tipping norms are what some people are taught o believe. Well, I read a different book. I, on the other hand, my fall under being cheap as well I guess. No, maybe just wrong and dirty? I don't know, you determine. If you suck, you suck. There's no squeezing even a dollar out of me. Plan and simple right? Wrong.....not when I'm with the significant other.
It's hard when I go out to eat with Anthony. He always makes me feel like the bad guy. If I feel that service wasn't up to standard I might consider the 15%. If it was just totally bombed, then I say heck with it, I pay the amount on my debit card, put a big ol ZERO on the tip line and then walk out. As we're walking out, here comes Anthony throwing six bucks on the table out of guilt.
"What are you doing??!!" I'll grunt to him.
"Come on, Michelle. You can't NOT tip. That's embarrassing. You use to be a server. You understand how it feels to make a living of tips." He'll reply trying to make me feel guilty.
"Uhhhh, yeah. I was. So therefor I know the importance of delivery and attentiveness. The only time we saw our server was when she actually took our order. The runner brought out our food. A bus boy filled our waters....twice. Another bus boy took away our dirty dishes. Oh wait, we say our server twice because that's when she put on a smile and handed us our check in hopes that we didn't notice that I was STILL waiting for that appetizer she forgot to put in." I pout.
"I just don't want my food spit in next time we decide to come here again. You know, you never forget the face that stiffs you."
*Siiiigggghh* Fine fine.
Now as far as a dirty tipper. These are usually the old men that think their little jokes are actually funny or lame teenagers trying to get a reaction out of you.
Care for an example?-
One time I was waiting on some regulars (that happened to be teenagers that just sat around, sipped on water, and played with their tarot cards.) I knew their order by heart, so I made sure I had their lemon water there ready for them. Instead of actually paying for lemonade they made lemon water. Mmm, how tasty.....
All of a sudden I got slammed with 5 other tables. Of course I admit I totally ignored the teenagers knowing that they weren't going to order anything. Plus, we all knew they always left a 50 cent tip. Who would want to bust their butts for that?? In the end, when the smoke had cleared they were snapping their fingers for the check. I forgot they ordered 1 cup of coffee (but had all their other friends sip out of it because they were too cheap to buy another $1.40 cup.) I was paid in pennies......and after I embarrassingly cleared the table my "tip" was found underneath the sticky coins. Written on the dirty napkin was- "Here's a tip for you: Always use protection. Ha Ha. *smiley face drawn at the end*" With that they actually left me a sealed condom; might I note it was strawberry flavored as well. Bravo Bravo. That definitely got me stirred up. Luckily my manger was very supportive and banned them from coming back. I mean, how stupid to do that at a restaurant you come to every other day?? Common sense, people.
And then there's the cheap tipper. Ah, yes. I actually have a friend that is classified under this group quite well. I have to admit I always dodge my way out of going to restaurants with her. The last straw was when we ate out at Olive Garden. She thought it was suitable to bring her 2 yr old and on top of that ordered him what I was hoping she wouldn't. Yeah, she did.....she ordered him spaghetti! Noooo!! Why?? I don't want my nice clothes ruined as your baby is flinging food in my eye. And the worst part is that I can't even yell or scold him because, well, it's not MY baby. Couldn't she have gotten him chicken fingers? He's only 2!! His appetite is big enough to get satisfied on just 1 bread stick. So, as I'm suffering through this experience the table is getting smothered in marinara sauce, noodles are all over the floor, and bread sticks broken up all over the place.
The check comes and we spilt it down the middle. The server was great and very patient with the wild child. Secretly I felt her pain. That's every server's worst nightmare- babies eating spaghetti.....or crackers. Pretty much anything that will be time consuming to clean up afterwards. So, I lay a 5 dollar bill on the table as part as my tip for the meal. My friend whips out 2 bucks. What?? Are you kidding me?? We have the equal amount of food and you're going to tip less than me?? Actually her bill was more because she had the child size spaghetti, juice, and a soda. Her bill was $10 more than mine and you leave $2!! I don't care if your bill is only $3. If you bring a baby in leaving a mess like the one he did, you better throw in an extra couple of dollars. The server was so nice that she even gave my friend's baby free fruit while we were waiting for the bread sticks to come out of the oven. This is the gratitude she shows her?? I was painfully embarrassed. I asked my friend if she planned on leaving more. She said, "No, why? Two dollars is good! That's the most I ever tip anyway, anywhere, anyhow. If service is mediocre then I tip a dollar."
I couldn't believe what I was hearing. I couldn't believe I addressed this person as my friend in this oh so public restaurant. It's been 6 months now and still counting. I think she's starting to get the hint that A.) I won't eat out if she has the baby and B.) only if it's somewhere cheap like Bread Beyond. *sigh*
Being that I was a server for 5 years I consider myself a pretty good tipper. So, I feel that I fall under the "Good" tipping status. But there are two different types of good- To me good means you tip according to the service, and not relying on the total bill to help determine whatever amount you feel should be left. If you put on that fake smile, ask how my food tastes, and if you can get me anything else, you're pretty much in the clear.
Anthony is a good tipper as well. But he's a different good. His is in a sense that he tips 18%-20% regardless of how poor the service was. Now that's a pretty good tipper. Following the black book of tipping norms are what some people are taught o believe. Well, I read a different book. I, on the other hand, my fall under being cheap as well I guess. No, maybe just wrong and dirty? I don't know, you determine. If you suck, you suck. There's no squeezing even a dollar out of me. Plan and simple right? Wrong.....not when I'm with the significant other.
It's hard when I go out to eat with Anthony. He always makes me feel like the bad guy. If I feel that service wasn't up to standard I might consider the 15%. If it was just totally bombed, then I say heck with it, I pay the amount on my debit card, put a big ol ZERO on the tip line and then walk out. As we're walking out, here comes Anthony throwing six bucks on the table out of guilt.
"What are you doing??!!" I'll grunt to him.
"Come on, Michelle. You can't NOT tip. That's embarrassing. You use to be a server. You understand how it feels to make a living of tips." He'll reply trying to make me feel guilty.
"Uhhhh, yeah. I was. So therefor I know the importance of delivery and attentiveness. The only time we saw our server was when she actually took our order. The runner brought out our food. A bus boy filled our waters....twice. Another bus boy took away our dirty dishes. Oh wait, we say our server twice because that's when she put on a smile and handed us our check in hopes that we didn't notice that I was STILL waiting for that appetizer she forgot to put in." I pout.
"I just don't want my food spit in next time we decide to come here again. You know, you never forget the face that stiffs you."
*Siiiigggghh* Fine fine.
Now as far as a dirty tipper. These are usually the old men that think their little jokes are actually funny or lame teenagers trying to get a reaction out of you.
Care for an example?-
One time I was waiting on some regulars (that happened to be teenagers that just sat around, sipped on water, and played with their tarot cards.) I knew their order by heart, so I made sure I had their lemon water there ready for them. Instead of actually paying for lemonade they made lemon water. Mmm, how tasty.....
All of a sudden I got slammed with 5 other tables. Of course I admit I totally ignored the teenagers knowing that they weren't going to order anything. Plus, we all knew they always left a 50 cent tip. Who would want to bust their butts for that?? In the end, when the smoke had cleared they were snapping their fingers for the check. I forgot they ordered 1 cup of coffee (but had all their other friends sip out of it because they were too cheap to buy another $1.40 cup.) I was paid in pennies......and after I embarrassingly cleared the table my "tip" was found underneath the sticky coins. Written on the dirty napkin was- "Here's a tip for you: Always use protection. Ha Ha. *smiley face drawn at the end*" With that they actually left me a sealed condom; might I note it was strawberry flavored as well. Bravo Bravo. That definitely got me stirred up. Luckily my manger was very supportive and banned them from coming back. I mean, how stupid to do that at a restaurant you come to every other day?? Common sense, people.
And then there's the cheap tipper. Ah, yes. I actually have a friend that is classified under this group quite well. I have to admit I always dodge my way out of going to restaurants with her. The last straw was when we ate out at Olive Garden. She thought it was suitable to bring her 2 yr old and on top of that ordered him what I was hoping she wouldn't. Yeah, she did.....she ordered him spaghetti! Noooo!! Why?? I don't want my nice clothes ruined as your baby is flinging food in my eye. And the worst part is that I can't even yell or scold him because, well, it's not MY baby. Couldn't she have gotten him chicken fingers? He's only 2!! His appetite is big enough to get satisfied on just 1 bread stick. So, as I'm suffering through this experience the table is getting smothered in marinara sauce, noodles are all over the floor, and bread sticks broken up all over the place.
The check comes and we spilt it down the middle. The server was great and very patient with the wild child. Secretly I felt her pain. That's every server's worst nightmare- babies eating spaghetti.....or crackers. Pretty much anything that will be time consuming to clean up afterwards. So, I lay a 5 dollar bill on the table as part as my tip for the meal. My friend whips out 2 bucks. What?? Are you kidding me?? We have the equal amount of food and you're going to tip less than me?? Actually her bill was more because she had the child size spaghetti, juice, and a soda. Her bill was $10 more than mine and you leave $2!! I don't care if your bill is only $3. If you bring a baby in leaving a mess like the one he did, you better throw in an extra couple of dollars. The server was so nice that she even gave my friend's baby free fruit while we were waiting for the bread sticks to come out of the oven. This is the gratitude she shows her?? I was painfully embarrassed. I asked my friend if she planned on leaving more. She said, "No, why? Two dollars is good! That's the most I ever tip anyway, anywhere, anyhow. If service is mediocre then I tip a dollar."
I couldn't believe what I was hearing. I couldn't believe I addressed this person as my friend in this oh so public restaurant. It's been 6 months now and still counting. I think she's starting to get the hint that A.) I won't eat out if she has the baby and B.) only if it's somewhere cheap like Bread Beyond. *sigh*
What is your golden rule for tipping?
Here's pictures from our breakfast this morning. Yummy chorizo and steak.
That guy's leg was bigger than the width of my chest!! Whoa...
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Love and Hate
Don't you love when you're having a good day? The day seems to get better and better each moment, right?
25 things I love Running into people I haven’t seen in forever and I actually look good that day. Cracking my back Eating all the red flavored candies out of the bag The first bite into my favorite food Old sour kimchi …mmmm! Waking up to my alarm but realizing there isn’t any school or work that day Seeing old pictures of myself I forgot I had The smell of a nice cologne/perfume on a stranger A song I haven’t heard in years playing on the radio When the hairdresser actually gets the results I asked for A fresh haircut Coming home to a cooked meal Finding out my electricity bill is cheaper than what I expected Picking my nose (I know,gross, but I love it! haha) When I’m the first person in line at the store Realizing I have more money in my account than I thought Things that remind me of my childhood years A parking spot right in front of the store Strangers letting me pet their dog The smell of a hot delivered pizza (box) Finding random money in my clothes Checking out at the register and realizing my stuff is 50% off The feeling you get when you're on a vacation When Anthony does the dishes voluntarily Friends that try kimchi and love it |
********************
Then when it rains it pours....
Fake laughing to hold a conversation or look somewhat interested
The radio playing the same song 10 times within the hour
Sad dreams that seem real
People that make too many substitutions to their fast food order and expect it to come out right…Oh, come on!! This isn’t fine dining here. (*cough* Anthony)
Making left hand turns…anywhere…
People that cut you off and then go slower than the speed limit *HONK!!!*
Employees asking if you’d like to sign up for their high interest rate company credit card as you’re checking out at the register.
Wild/hyper kids
Using a public bathroom and it hasn’t been cleaned in weeks or is out of toilet paper!!
Being put on hold with that horrible music and then getting disconnected after 10 minutes of you precious time!!
Going to a mechanic/dentist
Bad experience at an upscale restaurant (give me my '$30 for a steak money' back!)
People looking at me crazy when Iask them to take off their shoes in my house
Spending $200 on grocieries and the power goes out
People getting promoted due to politics and not work performance
Barking dogs all night long
Crying babies in restaurant/movie theater
Cell phone soliciters in the mall
My nicely washed car......and it rains
When people prefer to eat in front of the TV instead of a table
Getting a wiff of someone's bad breath
Getting out of the shower and finding a spider on your towel
Going out to eat and your friend "forgets" their wallet
Seeing dirt under people's nails *eew*
When you’e running late and the world throws every obstacle at you.
People that borrow your stuff or money and don’t return it
When I have extra money and an unexpected bill to greet me
When guests invite me over and their house is messy!! (especially the bathroom..with pee all over the toilet. Yuck)
Letting car into traffic and not getting the "thank you" gesture
People that take 3 hours to make a right hand turn
People that don’t use blinkers
When people complain indirectly
People that don’t cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing
People that always have to “one up” you
When there are sooooo many other parking spots/ seats but someone insists on being right next to you.
When cashiers are socializing amongst each other as I’m trying to pay
**and last but not least-----**
People who smoke (mainly in public areas). Especially when they ask, “Do you mind if I light a cigarette?” Well, DUH! If you have to ask then most likely the answer is no. But, I just reply with #1 (fake laughing), add a lie, and say “No, of course not.” In reality I’m holding my breath and trying to find a fresh patch of fresh air. I can’t stand getting in someone’s car and it smells like stale puke! Ewww!! Not a good way to impress someone, epecially a date. The worst is when a co-worker just comes back from a cigarette break and thinks that spraying themselves with cheap body spray will hide the smell. *gag* Or how about when parents smoke in the car and their kids are with them. *just sad*
Be smart-Don’t start :D
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