I've Been UPSIZED: Chapter 19

You Know That Annoying Person?

We’ve all seen them. That annoying person who lingers a bit too long at the coffee bar, making small talk with the barista. They talk about the weather, current events, and offer unsolicited business advice.

Yep, I’ve turned into that person. Although I’ve launched Marketing Flexibility and I’m busy working with clients during the week, it’s just not the same as being part of a full time team. The kind of team that rallies together when times get tough and there’s cake in the conference room. Don’t get me wrong, I love what I’m doing. Now that I’m working in the consulting world, businesses call me when times are tough. I get the satisfaction of rallying their team and creating strategies that work. But at the end of the day, I’m alone in my office while their team celebrates victory in the conference room.  

I Always Dreaded Team Building Events

Now that I’m out of the corporate world, I can admit that I always dreaded team building events. Let’s be honest here, who really gets excited about an afternoon of trust falls with co-workers? Or, how about those awkward dunk tanks? Do you really want to see your boss in a bathing suit?

So, I was surprised when I read wistfully about a company picnic one of my client’s hosted for their employees. My invitation had obviously been lost in the mail, and I felt a bit like Charlie Brown standing by the mailbox. For the first time, I realized that my new career has positioned me as an outsider. I’m the expert, the consultant, the person who delivers solutions. What I’m not is a fully integrated member of the team. No free hot dogs for me!

Cake for One?

The only thing sadder than hanging out in a crowded conference room eating cake is hovering over a pan of brownies alone. There’s just no one to hold you accountable for that third slab of brownie! So, what’s an entrepreneur to do? Well, hang out at the local coffee shop and make small talk with the barista, of course!

It’s not all bad. I’ve met some fascinating people at the coffee shop. If you see me there, stop by and say hello. If I’m on the third brownie, please stop me!