(My apologies to Gloria Gaynor.)

At first I was afraid, I was petrified. I kept thinking I couldn’t find the right person even nationwide. But then I spent so many nights combing resumes and stalking on LinkedIn and I grew strong. I knew we’d offer all along.

And now you’re here. And it’s all new. You’ve got enthusiasm, eagerness and knowledge to boot. We start you off the best we can and we’ll be here to help you grow. Now it’s time for you to go off on your own with all you know.

But now you’re back. With your complaints. It doesn’t feel like it’s been long enough to create this kind of angst but I’m going to hear you out and do the best I can to make you see a new perspective and embrace your fellow man.

Go on now go. Walk out the door. Go and have some open dialogue with those you fought before. Assume positive intent and try your best to keep your cool. Use emotional intelligence and don’t you play the fool.

Weren’t you the one who asked me this same question just last week? Oh come on. You need to learn how to get along.

Now you see me. A human too! I’m just a person trying to make the best of everything for you. I can’t fix it all and just expect you to be pleased but I’ve been trying to save some energy left to have for me. Go on now go. Give me some space. I’ve got a million other things to handle that are on my plate. I need some time off. Or maybe a little nap. Or at least a quick walk to clear my head of all this crap!

I will survive.

I Will Survive, HR style

Put your own mask on first. We’ve heard it on flights. We’ve heard it from Arianna Huffington and probably a plethora of other places. But, do we do it? Consistently enough to protect ourselves from burnout. Not so much. At least not in my experience personally and in my HR circle.

This is my fun little way of saying, take some time off. Finding ways to prioritize yourself and your sanity is the best way to be able to contribute meaningfully and have impact on organizations and individuals.