Definitely Not By Chance

Recently, my colleague John and I have been sharing a bit more about ourselves, and I am very thankful to have found this friend at my workplace. John is 7 years my senior and very experienced in several industries. Personally, I find that he is over-qualified for this position that we are working in this project team. Yet we both recognized that it is helpful to gather relevant working experience working on ground projects with external companies.

There is also another colleague Tham; 13 years my senior and married with 2 kids. With more than 10 years of working experience, I am also thankful to have this ‘big brother’ working together in this project team. Tham and John have been a significant addition to this team and I have learnt much from both of them.

But what really impacted me was their influence in this team. Before they joined this department, the culture was very much tensed and compliant. However, over these recent months, their thoughts and initiatives have revealed a slight change in department culture and I am beginning to see a different side of things now.

I am really thankful for this new perspective as I see the importance to having an open channel of communication and learning in the workplace. This is the type of open workplace culture that encourages individuals to explore new perspectives and ways of viewing and doing things; at the same time giving flexibility to each distinct individual. Personally, I feel that a homogenous and compliant culture is out-dated and rather uncomfortable to work in. Each individual should not work such that he/she begins to lose his/her identity and style.

Of coz, this view would vary depending on whose perspective one looks at. From a superior’s perspective, compliance is definitely a much easier way to get things done. However, from the employee’s perspective, having his views heard and being accepted for who is he, makes a huge difference to his self-esteem and belongingness to the department and organization.

I thank God for friends at my workplace. Even at my previous department, God also provided me with 2 good colleagues (Raymond and Alvin) whom I could trust and share my struggles. Before I transferred to work in this department, God had also provided with 2 good colleagues (John and Chai Joo) as well.

I hope that through such times, I can be reminded that God is watching over me and preparing the way ahead for me. May each experience strengthen my faith in Him! Praise the Lord! =)