LIFE AS A SUPERVISOR ( BOSS)Inspired by all my shipmates ..

Life as a Supervisor..
 One of the toughest things I have ever done in my life , Navy or civilian is to be a Supervisor/ Boss. We all hate the Boss . or the ones telling us what to do. But when its your turn or opportunity , we often think ok, I got this! I mean , I know how to get along and go along with my peers. But guess what? Once you become the Boss / Supervisor.. Everyone looks at you different. They look at you as the enemy or the upper chain of command - you the man now..
 Am I right? The first time I was promoted to LPO( Supervisor/ Boss)  position , I was a tyrant , I was over bearing , because when I told people to do things , they thought friendship , relationship , etc would play into the situation. Well, I found out the hard way , people don't always have your best interest at heart. Thus , I had to become something I talked about with my peers.. I was a jerk, a overly micro managing supervisor that didn't trust anyone. It was a tough time and I know I made alot of mistakes and said alot of hurtful things , that have probably hurt my career and personal relationships.
 But probably the hardest thing about being the Boss , is that the amount of issues and problems you have to deal with, marriage issues, divorce proceedings, emotional instability , depression, abuse of alcohol, stress, it all comes into play, and not only that you as the Boss , have to be SUPERMAN, I'm never late , I'm never sad, I'm always ready! Its a tough mentality to keep especially for 20 years plus. I admire those people I have worked with that are able to maintain that focus and determination. Its a tough road. But as a Boss you have to maintain that perception and deal with all the issues of many people. It was so much easier to be the worker bee , and just following directions. But to be thrusted in Supervisory positions and having the lives of young adults looking for guidance and advice is truly overwhelming. My life as a Supervisor is a difficult one and one that requires patience , understanding and true mental strength , Your advice , or counsel is truly relevant and effective to those junior personnel. Its not a easy task , and I don't run away from that responsibility , but I must say its something that cant be take for granted. Whats frustrating , is when they come to you , and you really have little to advise, Sure you tell them see Chaplain , or Counselors and Other bosses, but these kids really want help from those that they work with. I understand that and I'm thankful alot of my junior personnel come to me , But on the other side , I don't have all the answers and often times , I see the frustration and fear in these young sailors eyes. But I do my best to comfort them and guide them and hopefully get them to resolve their issues , but we all know Life is a difficult thing to do, especially when it deals with marriage , relationship concerns.. My advice to those in need of assistance , speak with someone you trust , seek professional help , make that plan, and pursue it. Its sounds simple , but having a direct plan of action helps you get started. But ultimately, the decision you make is really up to you, Don't let others dictate what's the right ting to do. Because we are all different in our back rounds , our morale's , religious beliefs etc. My life as a supervisor has been and will always be one of the most challenging positions to hold and maintain.. It's like the old saying " leaders .. lead ... Players .. Play .. Workers ..work.. " You are what you say and do.. Until my next blog. Take Care and do help a friend in need.. !!THE SOURCE PRODUCTIONS @ 2011