One of my favorite movies is Office Space. It’s absolutely hilarious but since I’ve officially
joined the 9-5 working world, in a lot of ways, I now find Office Space to be strangely relatable. I don’t want to spoil the
movie for anyone that hasn’t seen it but if you have, you likely know what the
movie is about and why the main character, Peter Gibbons, is a very funny yet
unenthusiastic employee who dares to challenge the conventions of the 9-5 life.
The movie is pure, comedic genius. I enjoy working in an office, having an
excuse to slay in business casual attire, and being employed. It’s a blessing. And
while I have had jobs I didn’t necessarily like, I was able to learn something
from all of them, which is a blessing too. If you watch Office Space you may be able to gather more of what I’m talking
about, and observe some of the highs and lows of being part of the
professional working world, but I’m certain you’ll get a good laugh from it all
as well. Check it out sometime.
As you embark on your career, I want you to know some things and stay woke about what you’ll be up against. Please understand that no matter what, you have value, and you matter. Always remember that. As progressive as this world and different workplaces may seem, every workplace has a culture. You’ll be in different places where a lot of people who don’t look like you will be in the room. But know that you belong in those rooms too. Spend some time observing and studying those spaces and learn as much as you can. There will be people you work with who will make presumptions about your competence, education, and ability to fulfill your job duties. There will be more who will think less of you because of the color of your skin and try to disqualify you the moment you make an error, mistake, or ask questions about things you may not understand. This will all feel uncomfortable and you may get insecure, feel like you’re all by yourself, and think you don’t belong there, but ride it out...