GRACE HELPS US BUILD RELATIONSHIP BRIDGES NO MATTER THE CIRCUMSTANCES

Build Bridges; Don’t Destroy Them
~Dieter F. Uchtdorf~

Think about the last time you were faced with a life-changing decision that would change the dynamic of your life, your path, and your relationships.  It was tough, wasn’t it?  After you have considered your approach, the impact, the possible outcome; you finally come to grips and step out on faith to proceed.

Everyone faces making decisions every single day and on some days; a decision is tougher than others.  This is no different when one has to make a decision about their career path and opportunities that present themselves.

There are times when an employee and an employer must part ways.  As a leader, you must always respect when someone is pursuing growth and development, personally or professionally.  You may not agree with the reason or motive for the departure, however, you must respect the new opportunity for your employee or co-worker. They have decided the time for their departure is at hand, which reminds me of Paul’s statement, “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:6-7).” 

The employee may feel an eagerness for terminating their current position. He or she is preparing to move on to their next destination and ultimately, it is likely in the best interest for you, the employee, and the company. Selfishly and with just cause; you may wonder how you will backfill the position and more importantly, how you will regain that level of expertise; but, you cannot harbor ill-will in your heart or actions. Don’t give the person the cold shoulder or totally ignore their efforts in the past and even in the present. Remember, they did give you a fair notice and attempted to respect you as they embarked upon their new endeavors. Most of the time, the person has considered the price of leaving the position. Their mind is set and now it is time to allow that person to conclude their experience with you with dignity.

It is tough enough as it is because decision-making is an emotional process no matter the circumstance, so try to keep an open and clear mind by looking at the big picture.  Place yourself in the other persons’ shoes.

My mother told me to never burn bridges, you never know if you will need that same bridge as a life line later in life. Count it as a learning and positive experience and both of you prepare to receive a blessing in your new journey and separate paths.

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Simply Jackie

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