Originally published December 4, 2017

I ran into my favourite boss I ever had today. His impact was significant in forming my work ethic and leadership skills and I’m grateful for his coaching.

Chris Harburn was the Restaurant Leader while I worked at Earls Tin Palace. Chris taught me about the little things like learning customers’ names or keeping track of our regulars birthdays – simple stuff but his focus on the details encouraged me to go the extra mile. 

There was a time when working at Earls was an enviable thing. Being an ” Earls Girl ” was aspirational. When I was a lounge server, my mom and grandma used to come in on Fridays and never understood why I didn’t spend more time visiting them at the table. 

My mom asked me one time as it wasn’t very busy but I was busting my ass. I said ” Mom, there is a pile of resumes in the back office of people who want my job. If I don’t do it someone else will. ” 

We are all replaceable. If we hand in a C or don’t get to know the human on the other side of the transaction, it will be just that – a transaction. 

The things that require zero talent like being prepared, being coachable, doing extra, or having a positive attitude contribute to growth. It’s understanding that there is always a stack of resumes who would love to have your job. 

So next time you find yourself handing in a C – try and remember that you are the only one responsible for your success so you should do your best work.