I visited a store on Tuesday at Dundas and Yonge Streets at approximately 2:40 in the afternoon. When I was about to enter, I encountered two security guards standing at the entrance, one outside and one inside. I walked past them and was impressed. The aisles were cleaned, and items were meticulously organized.
As I walked down a couple of the aisles to pick up items, I had in thoughts before getting a cart. I got the cart and proceeded to get the other items. When I saw an employee on a ladder stocking away items, I stopped and asked where I would find headphones. I was told in aisle four. As I looked for aisle four, I saw one of the items I needed and picked it up—a wine cork opener. I looked up, saw the number, and went down the aisle. Nothing electrical was there. Instead of going back to her, I decided to look for myself.
Another employee directed me to the far end to find the item. I walked there to notice that what I was looking for was not there. I walked around and back through aisle four. I wondered why the first employee said aisle four. Could it be that she is a new employee? Did it slip her mind where electrical items were located? Did I benefit from being sent to the wrong section? Perhaps. Had I been sent to the right section, I may have left sooner without the item as my most forceful thought was being on time for the movie “Captain America” starting at 3:30 p.m.
CHANGE YOUR LIFE WITH YOUR THOUGHTS
As I walked to the checkout line, I observed another employee who left her work to show a customer an item she was looking for.
Within, I smiled at the thought entertained, and I fought.
My observation showed me three different approaches as a leader, which are the art and ability to influence and motivate people to accept and follow through with enthusiasm.
My observation also jabbed at my emotions not to confront the first employee as I recalled my brother-in-law’s note on Leadership. “People need to be inspired so they may combat fear or hopelessness. A leader who can hold the trust and confidence of people under trying and frustrating situations is regarded as one who offers unselfish support.”
Such an attitude I wished some of my past leaders had shown me–appreciation instead of constantly seeking my flaws. One of my personal stories can be found in my book Until My Dying Day.
- The first employee allowed me [the customer] to see an item needed and others I may purchase, such as cleaning and other household items.
- Although the second employee was seen standing while another packed away items, her approach showed her knowledge and attitude of just doing what she was paid to do.
- The third employee went beyond her call of duty and took a customer to where the item was located. The customer I heard thanked her as I proceeded to the checkout line.
TIME AND UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES
Standing in the checkout line, I observed the two security guards in the store. One checked out a customer’s movement as he briefly said something to the other. In the moment of my observation, I thoughtfully noted that one of them should be outside. If something goes wrong, the one outside can apprehend the customer. I then glanced back to the section I had not too long left before spotting the headphones I was looking for.
I wanted to leave, but I stayed in the line because it was longer and closer to the movie’s start time. When my turn came to check out, the cashier scanned the items, and I paid as she bagged them.
Before the cashier was done packing for me to leave, a young man came up and put his items on the counter. Without saying a word, I looked at him. He apologized. I took the bag from the cashier, wished her a good day, and left, spotting one of the security guards outside.
AUTHENTICITY Vs. ACTING
There is a saying that the world is a stage, and we are the actors. While some of us are authentic in our actions, others are actors in what they have seen of our actions or know of our lives. Please be aware of your surroundings and those you interact with. This becomes necessary when you are confused about unexplained situations in your life [as I was.] Done for understanding the response of others from their words or actions.
ENJOYMENT HAD
I got to the movie on time to buy myself a treat, located my seat, used the restroom, and enjoyed watching Captain America in the moving seats.
Better The End 