I base my life credo around the principle phrase that every action has a reaction, meaning the actions and beliefs of one person positively or negatively affects themselves or the next person. I also place the golden rule under my credo as I have always treated people with respect and equality as that is how I wish to be treated. My father once told me, “Son, never burn any bridges as you never know whom you may run into in the future. The kid that you made fun of may turn out to be your coworker or better yet, your boss.”
I have always kept my father’s knowledge and advice close to heart as I know he is much wiser and he has been through so much more than I have. I have been able to meet and maintain healthy relationships with quality people who have respected me and have helped me to excel in life. I feel like the world would be such a better place if more people followed the golden rule, or if they realized the consequences of their actions. From my personal experience in my short twenty-three years of life, I have developed into an extremely optimistic person by living my life with the concept that every action has a reaction.
Recently I had the pleasure of interviewing Kim Vanek, long time manager at Sullivan’s Steakhouse, about how her life and career goals are balanced and the values which she lives her life by. Kim addressed the importance of having pride in your work, life, and the relationships in between. Ms. Vanek said, “The day you do not take pride in your work is the day you need to quit your job and find a new profession.”
I asked Kim about the challenges and rewards of being a lifelong learner as a manager in the food service industry. Her main point was the importance of treating everyone you encounter with universal respect as well as addressing the importance of being able to motivate people, being open minded, while being an effective communicator and listener.
The topic of developing and maintaining relationships with those people associated with the restaurant industry came up. Kim noted that the restaurant business is a close knit family despite how large the industry actually is. She addressed my quotation from my father about not burning any bridges as this industry goes full circle. Maintaining positive relations with those in your industry will allow for one to network successfully while providing the opportunities for advancement and prosperity. In closing my interview with Kim Vanek, she told me to remember one thing. She said, “You may not be liked by everyone, but you must be respected all.”
"Credo." Merriam Webster Dictionary.com. Merriam Webster. Web. 23 Aug. 2011. <http://www.merriam-webster.com/>.
Kim Vanek, Manager, Sullivan’s Steakhouse. Interviewee. Performed on August 28, 2011 from 10:30 to 11:30 pm.
