From a Former Clock Watcher:

My current job is the single most effective teaching tool in my life. Through it I have learned (am learning, more like) what it takes to manage the work of others while carrying a full workload of my own. I have had to make decisions about the best course of action when we face crises, and much to my chagrin, I have had to make a handful of judgment calls about the contribution of people in my charge—whether or not they are consistently more of an asset than a liability—and depending on the answer, whether or not they will be let go.

I don’t single-handedly save the day at my company, or arrive at conclusions without the guidance, help, and support of superiors and peers alike, but I am responsible for more here than I’ve ever had to be at any other point, at any other place, in my professional experience. It brings much to bear on my private life.

I see very clearly now that an increase in responsibility necessitates an increase in compassion for those who help me meet deadlines and goals, and to whom I entrust precious pieces of the work puzzle on a daily basis.

Like everyone, regardless of career, I ultimately work with human hearts, spirits, and souls. Try thinking of everyone who crosses your path on the job as someone who wants dignity and respect—someone, who at some point, has had someone else try to take that away from them—just as you probably have, and it will change your perspective.

No matter who we are, we are still fighting some old battle for credibility or love. But mostly love.