Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Maine chapter.

              

Some things in life hold you back. For example, all that Cherry Garcia ice cream will hold you back from your goal of a Rosie Huntington-Whitley body, and all that money spent on nights out will probably hold you back from buying that VS bikini for Spring Break. While these little indulgences are just average slip-ups, there’s one thing that you should never let hold you back: yourself. From a girl who might as well have had “WELCOME” printed across her forehead: don’t be a doormat. Take control of your happiness and your goals by realizing the situations in which you should think just a little more…like a boss.
 

 

                Situation 1: Your co-worker takes your idea…and gives you no credit. If you let this go, Pushover Polly, I’m going to have to give you a reality check that totals out to….your future. That idea, that promotion, or even that coffee order you just got could be the key to your future. Never underestimate the connections you make even in your lowest jobs – your work should always have your name on it, and anything with your name on it should be fabulous. Take the credit, girlfriend! You’ll thank me for it later when you get that corner office in 5 years.



                Situation 2: Your weekend-only boy tells you he doesn’t want to be seen publicly with you. Don’t make me say this twice: it’s the weekend, take out the trash. Ditch the loser and find someone who’d be proud to be seen with a dime like you! Even if you think you’re a commitment-free chick (props to you!) I can guarantee this situation will end badly. Three last words for this one: you deserve better!


 

                Situation 3: Your co-worker asks you to do something that she will put her name on. This situation can be a little tricky, because in some situations, it’s perfectly normal to do the dirty work. Especially in competitive internship situations, I would generally do as your boss asks you – and do it with a smile. However, if it’s your coworker who is asking you to knit her granddaughter a blanket that she’s been promising her for five years, if this job is not your dream job, draw the line. You’re there to further yourself professionally, and if your co-workers can’t respect you and take you seriously, try to have a conversation with them. Say something along the lines of: “I’d love to help you with this, but maybe not during corporate hours. Do you have any projects you need help with for the conference this week?”


                Situation 4: Your best friend friend stabs you in the back, but apologizes and seems sincere.  I don’t care how sincere this girl is, she needs you to tell her how you feel. While it might seem confrontational and even if you want to keep this relationship, explain to her how what she did hurt you, and that it will take time to repair the trust between the two of you.  Keeping excess drama in your life will only hold you back from spending energy in more important areas of your life.


 

So, Collegiettes, I hope we have all learned our lesson here. While selfishness is never the goal, sometimes you are the only person who will have your own back. Promote yourself, make connections and be your fabulous self! Promotion Priscilla doesn’t associate with Pushover Polly, so distinguish yourself now and cut the excess in your life. 

photo credit: google images