No doubt there are all kinds of reasons why teenagers seek part-time employment. But I bet enjoying a bit of financial independence, especially in order to buy “things,” ranks pretty high on most lists.
I know that’s what motivated my early entry into the workforce. There were these boots I just had to have… Mary Jane Sutka already had a pair, along with a few other girls. So part of wanting them was wrapped up with the desire to fit in at school. Seeking others’ approval… a pretty typical teenage behavior, I know…
But since the boots were anything but practical, Mom said that if I wanted them – I had to find a way to pay for them myself. I can still remember how great it felt to get that first paycheque – as paltry it was – and to march out of the store with the treasured boots finally in my possession.
But when I look back, I realize just how valuable all my early work experiences were and how much they taught me. They were about so much more than having the ability and freedom to buy things. The babysitting gigs, retail stints and wait staff jobs also helped me form good work habits, enhance my time management skills and learn how to manage my finances.
So all of this was running through my mind when Grandpa asked me to hire Jade to work at the Dude Ranch. I was initially reluctant but he pressed the point, suggesting that the experience might do Jade some good. And I did need the help. But even more important was the fact that Grandpa asked me to do it. So, I said yes.
The challenges began almost immediately. Jade was completely unmotivated and rude to potential customers. If that wasn’t bad enough… when Jade learned that the Dude Ranch was going to be empty, she threw a big party there – without my knowledge or consent…
Jade apologized and openly admitted she had made a big mistake. She claimed that it was only supposed to be a few friends; but, thanks to social media, lots of other kids found out. And I understand that Jade has struggled here in Hudson, and is trying her best to fit in at school. So, in some ways, throwing the party was just Jade’s way of seeking approval and acceptance. Kind of like me buying those boots…
But I was livid. What Jade did was a huge breach of trust. And don’t even get me started on all the damage they caused… There had to be serious consequences. So as soon as she cleaned up the mess, I fired her.
Even though I know I was more than justified in letting Jade go, I also felt strangely disappointed that hiring her didn’t work out… in large part, I think, because I felt like I was letting Grandpa down. I guess the truth is that most of us often look for the approval of others – especially those closest to us.
So, yes, I was upset with Jade. But I also had to admit that, in my own way, I was kind of seeking Grandpa’s approval when I hired her in the first place.
It was one of those moments of realization that left me staring at the ugly truth: Maybe my own teenaged self wasn’t all that far behind me, after all…