It was a hard day at work. We announced that we are closing the location I was just at last week. Of course, I already knew but couldn’t say anything, which made my visit there painful. I don’t like that part of my job, being in the know on tough decisions that affect people. But it’s an unfortunate part of management.

The last few years have been nothing but changes at work, and I don’t think it’s done yet. It’s been crazy. Mostly I’ve been sticking it out because the insurance is great and I’ve really needed it. I still do. But I also care about some people there, and I want to believe that eventually, things will turn around. I’m hoping I can help with that.

I tried today to help my group process this recent change. We discussed what it meant to them and how we can streamline processes to ensure the workloads aren’t too much. I also talked individually with the ones who are part of the closing, saying how sorry I was and making sure they knew it had nothing to do with their personal performance. I also said they could call me later if they needed someone to yell at. Small consolation, I know.

I’m grateful that my conversations today weren’t confrontational because they could have been. Maybe they will be later, once this sudden change really sinks in. And that will be ok.