So, after I wrote the first retail post, I thought about the other side of it.
Any job can be nasty. That is why it is a paying job, and not a hobby.
But anyways, there are plenty of great things I got out of working retail.
First and foremost, I learned a lot about myself. I was once the shy kid who wouldn’t raise my hand, even if I knew the answer.
I was shy at first in the retail world, but then I just starting opening up and being myself.
I was outgoing, and damn good at my job. And I liked that I was good at something.
I made lasting friendships with some of the people I worked with.
I learned about people and how they react, and I learned how to communicate with everyone.
I got the fulfillment of meeting some of those truly special people who have respect and grace no matter who they come in contact with or what mood they are in.
I got to participate in the holiday madness. Even though I dreaded it, it gave me a rush. I felt a part of something magical helping people select the perfect gift for someone.
I learned to stand up for myself too.
Some days I can’t imagine working a job like that again, and other times I truly miss it.
I haven’t been good at much throughout my life. I used to be a quitter of everything.
But, I was good at communicating with people. Being someone they went to for help. A familiar face. A friend.
That feels like success to me.