It’s not my job

Job descriptions help create clarity for everyone involved. We know what our responsibilities are and what others can expect from us. It turns out they also come with a trap.

The waitress who served me and my significant other the other night as we celebrated our fifth anniversary was absolutely delightful.

Being that we were at a vegan restaurant, garlic was in nearly everything on the menu.

She showed a level of care and support when I explained how I struggle immensely to digest garlic.

She took time to listen, showed compassion, and apologized for not having many options that suited me. She offered ideas to consider, checked in multiple times with us, and ensured she was just a step away if we had any more questions.

I thought to keep it simple, so I asked if the chef would consider making a vegetable medley with oil, salt, and pepper. She checked with the chef and returned with a stir-fry proposition, including rice. She also verified with me if the extra ingredients the chef intended on using were okay.

The meal was delicious, and our night was delightful, thanks to someone who went above and beyond their job description.

Job descriptions help create clarity for everyone involved. We know what our responsibilities are and what others can expect from us.

It turns out they also come with a trap. If we're not careful, we start clinging to them.

When we do, we reduce ourselves and sacrifice opportunities outside its definition that would otherwise challenge us to become better.

I'm a software engineer; my job is to write code. It's not my responsibility to make presentations or do public speaking.

I'm an accountant; it's my job to ensure the numbers align. It's not my responsibility to lead meetings or train coworkers.

I'm a receptionist; I answer the phone and guide the people that come into the office. It's not my job to get to know them.

It boils down to "it's not my job" or "show me where that is in my job description."

It wasn't our waitress's job to be compassionate, attentive and kind to my situation, but she did it gladly. As a result, it made me feel welcomed and offered me and my significant other a fantastic night together. We thanked her for going above and beyond.

Whether our title is receptionist or CEO, that is not who we are, what we're capable of being or becoming. In reducing ourselves to them, we become unable to see beyond their limits.

And perhaps that is where stereotypes are born.

Miguel,
Sparknotion – Think Differently.