Early on in my school counseling career my supervisor, Libby Schmidt, warned me to ask busy people to help out when needed. She went on to explain that busy people have a knack for getting things done. I guess that is a complement, because just about the time my blackberry shows every moment of every day for the next six weeks is full, I couldn't seem to refuse a request for help.
One of my crew, Susan, wanted to buy a used 'total gym' fitness contraption. Because I have been using one for years, I was happy to have a buddy total gymmer to share ideas and keep me motivated. The problem was that after two great days of sailing it would be a 4 hour round trip drive to pick it up.She was getting a great financial deal on it, so money wise, it was worth the trip. She has been a loyal crew since our joining the same team last August. So, I welcomed the opportunity to be her crew in this. Besides, we didn't think it would fit in her car and my husband has a big Nissan pick up that would transport the total gym without a hitch!
Still, the four hours of time plagued my tight schedule. As I searched for a rationale to help her out or bail out, she mentioned the book she wrote is in its final edit. "Oh,' here's an idea, if I drive can you take notes for me as we review my recent interviews that I need to put into publishable articles. Sure, she said. Convincing me that reading and writing while a car is in motion wouldn't make her car sick, we embarked on our drive to the O-zone (local verbage for Orlando). The drive turned out to be a great way to share ideas, get my notes jotted down and pick up her total gym!
After we returned home she shared the latest draft of her book. Unfortunately, or fortunately, depending on your point of view, at first glance I noticed a typo. Though I hated to tell her, I thought better to mention it now that after the book goes into production. Besides, becoming an editor/writer is my ultimate goal. Thinking back on a comment Gary Jobson made about completing one job with the intent of getting the next one, I whispered, "Uh, there's a little typo here." As she was sighing in disbelief, I immediately, offered to proof it and have it to her by noon today. Thankfully, it is an easy read, relatively short book of 88 pages. As if I didn't have my own articles to write, an office to tidy up, a boat that needs the bottom cleaned, clothes to wash - dry - fold, and my weekly walk over the Melbourne Causeway, I'm not editting her work.
Here it is some 28 years later and Libby's advice continues to be true. Susan, too is a busy gal. She is a full time physical therapist, an author, a sailor, a mom, a crewmate, and friend. Yet, when asked to help me transform ideas, she unhesitatingly said, 'Yea, sure, helping you will help me, too!" Indeed, helping her, is helping me, both on and off the boat.
So, remember, if you want something done, don't waste time with the couch potatoes in your life. You know, the ones who you would think have lots of time because they usually aren't doing anything, don't hold down a job, have a hobby (except TV) or even have kids at home. Go to the gals who are always on the go!
Love ya' all,
Marlene
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