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There’s a concept in Al-Anon and AA about not taking other’s inventories. What this means is that we’re all damaged, all in some state of recovery, and we take our own inventory as part of the 12-step process. What we don’t do is compare ourselves to others, offer advice, or take their inventory.
I’ve got enough to worry about with myself, I don’t need to be worrying about the mini-manager who’s doing an awful job. I only have attention and energy to focus on my own progress. So, I thought I’d check in here, on my random day off, Wednesday, and take a little of my own inventory here on The Happy Cashier, see how I’m doing, and discuss staying in my own lane.
Goals and Future States
I don’t want to be a cashier for much longer. The 8-hour shifts are draining. I do, however love many things about my job.
- I get great food, snacks and supplies for my home
- I have some wonderful people I work with
- The banter in my lane is fun and engaging
- I am learning a tremendous amount of information about myself
- I love watching people
- Great health benefits
- I thrive on engagement with others
- The river of life flowing down my lane is varied and fascinating
Downsides
- Small-minded management
- Gruelling shifts
- Task work that is hard or boring
- When my energy is down I can’t ask for time off
- 8-hours on my feet takes it’s toll by the time my shift is over
Where I’m Headed
- A better job (primarily in terms of salary)
- Success with one of my creative projects that frees me up
- More time invested in music and performing live again
- A new relationship
Navigating the Day
When I’m not feeling well I still have to show up for my shift. There are a few strategies I have for my OFF days. They involve watching my nutrition and fluid intake, leaning into the prayers and mantras of the day. Listening to my body and making continuous adjustments.
For Now
My process today is something I coined over 30 years ago. It’s a mantra of sorts as well.
Continuously Arriving At Patience.
When I get bummed about my progress out of the grocery life, I return to a state of patience and self-acceptance. I am here. I am on the journey upward. I can only manage my own life, my own energy, and my actions and words. Learning not to take others inventory, and more importantly, not to give unsolicited advice, are part of my own recovery from codependence and impulsiveness.
I’ll notice the state you are in when you approach my lane. I’ll either adjust to your level or leave you in your own bubble. The engagement is up to you. I am here. I am patiently waiting. I am active in my pause, listening, seeing, feeling.
[Listen to the Deep Dive explore the concepts of The Happy Cashier.]
The hope I see in others
becomes the hope I have for myself,
my life, and my own journey.
– The Happy Cashier
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