Life’s running amok (or, I just like the word amok and wanted to use it in this post)

I’ve recently discovered that reading one’s work schedule in an astute way can be very helpful in avoiding unexpectedly stressful situations.

Take yesterday as Exhibit A of this new-found truth.

While at work yesterday morning, I heard that the person scheduled to work the 2-6 PM desk shift had called in sick. “Oh,” I said, thinking the remainder of the day was free, “I’ll take the shift.”

And take it I did. Armed with a mind fresh off vacation and some reading material, I settled in at the desk ready to help any patrons who came my way. It was a slow afternoon as far as questions were concerned, but I was pleasantly surprised when I looked up from my book to see the computer clock reading 5:50PM.

“Good,” I said to myself. My eyes were feeling a little dry and irritated, and I was tired from my late plane trip the night before. I was thinking of going home, doing some unpacking, and getting to bed early. I reached over and flipped open the schedule to see who was relieving me and working the 6-10 shift.

“Katie: 6-10pm”.

Oh.

So, I was my own relief. And relieved I was. Felt like a whole new person when the clock struck 6.

Yes indeed, it helps to read the schedule right.