Whac-A Mole – by Arnie Wohlgemut
I admit it. I grew up having a baby boomer mentality. And for the most part, that worked for me.
My parents set an awesome example. My brother, sister and I all are real-life proof of their coaching. I enjoyed opportunities for growth and challenges along with career advancement.
But then there were some bumps on the road, detours and closures. The most painful was working in a difficult environment. Suddenly the ‘work hard, excel and move forward’ attitude of my baby boomer mentality crashed. I struggled to work in a “fit in”, ‘don’t rock the boat’ and ‘stay in your lane’ environment.
It was the wrong place for me. I believe that working to your best, improving things that are inhibiting growth is still the best strategy.
I agree with a 2018 LinkedIn post from Arlene Dickinson of the show Dragons’ Den:
“The only rule you MUST break in life is the unwritten one that says you should act and behave like everyone else. That’s such BS. Be the very best YOU. Stand out from the crowd, don’t blend into it. The more you embrace your unique differences the more successful your life will be for you.”
Wow, there it is – the key: Be the very best YOU.
Throughout my career I witnessed the carnage of broken spirits at work. Co-workers who grew weary of the constant verbal beating from politicians; intimidation and ruling with fear from senior executives.
All had given in or gave up being the best they were, tired of being hit directly on the head forcing them back into what ever hole they were given. I described it like the “Whac-A-Mole” game at the fair or arcade.
A typical Whac-A-Mole machine is a large, waist-level cabinet with five holes in its top. A plastic mole hides inside that hole. To start the game, you’re equipped with a large soft mallet. The goal – whack the mole. When the game starts, moles pop up from their holes at random. You win points by whacking them back down into the hole – it’s a fast-paced, crazy game.
I must thank my dad for his example. He never changed. He was who he was and when the BS got too much, he would step up and say so!
Today, as I write this, I take it as a reminder to be the very best ME. To build on my strengths. Stay focused on my path. To stop comparing my progress and success to those I know, those who appear to be more successful.
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