By Rebecca Harris, MS, LPC, CEAP Solutions EAP Coordinator

I will readily admit that I’m not a fan of the New York Yankee franchise. On the other hand, I’m a HUGE fan of Derek Jeter. This may seem a bit hypocritical, but what I see in this man is the everyday practice of “shared sacrifice”. Of course I don’t know him personally, what I see and read about him gives me the impression that he cares about his fellow team-mates and his fans just as much as he cares about the records. I want to believe that his humility is genuine. I want to believe that to get to the hall of fame by “sacrificing” some of his talent with others that he gets there with honor, pride and the respect of his fans.

It would appear that if he wanted to, he could have hit that 3000 hit long ago. What I see is someone who has helped advance the careers and averages of others by sharing his time and expertise to encourage, teach, and support his team. Instead of just advancing his skill, he gives his knowledge to others. When interviewed, it’s not all about him. He is quick to point out that it is a team sport, and without them, he would not be where he is today.

My point is that, in the workplace today, the most satisfied workers are those who realize that by working together, greater things can be achieved. Yes, sometimes it is hard not to want to self promote because we are afraid that in these very tenuous times of cutbacks, our jobs may be in jeopardy.

Amazingly however I am encouraged by all the wonderful ways in which people are pulling together, offering suggestions of what they can do to help, and putting their own

agendas away and reaching out to give back so that others don’t lose their jobs, homes, daycare providers etc. It’s wonderful to see that in an era of entitlement in our country, many people are truly sharing the sacrifice.

Next week, be prepared to be amazed by some of the stories of our workforce, and the ways they have come together.

Call Solutions EAP at 1-800-526-3485 for assistance for all of life's challenges.
It’s free, confidential and open to your family members.
Check us out on-line at
http://www.solutions-eap.com

George "Bud" Wassell, MS, LPC, CEAP
Director, Solutions EAP
213 Court Street
Middletown, CT 06457
800-526-3485
fax: 860-704-6221

www.solutions-eap.com