It’s funny how the most simple, brief exchange can stick with you forever and maybe even help remind you of what’s ultimately important in life.
Many years ago, a former co-worker showed up and saw that she would be working with myself, another staff member who’s arguably about as universally loved as you can get in my workplace and a third who was also known for her helpful, kind personality.
“Oh, yay – I get to work with happy people today!” she exclaimed.
I don’t think she meant to malign other staff or say they weren’t friendly or helpful either. But I think about that brief exchange often and how important it is, as much as possible, to surround yourself with people who, as much as possible, are positive, kind and supportive.
Someday in the distant future, when I retire, I hope I can look back on my career and think something similar – that I got to work with the happy people.