About 7 years ago and 2 corporate jobs ago, I was working for a small firm in a tiny marketing department. It was long before I became a working mom. The office was pretty small and we had our share of gossips. We had some really awesome people I learned so much from back then.
One person in particular I didn’t know very well though. She worked for the Vice President of the office. She walked around rarely with a smile, barely said hello and avoided all the little office parties we had. I assumed she was just an unhappy, unapproachable person. I was always cordial to her and often wondered if she just didn’t like me for some reason.
I found out we were going to share an office. I wasn’t thrilled with the idea because I assumed it would be awkward and quiet. I work hard and also like a good chat once in a while! Sharing an office can be tough if the chemistry is off.
We moved into our new digs and got settled. In the first few days, we started talking about work, then we started talking about family and then we started going to lunch. In no time, we became very good friends and hung out after work as well.
I assumed she was stand-offish and unfriendly in the beginning. What I realized later was that she was shy around people she didn’t know and it took her a while to get comfortable with new surroundings. I was practically avoiding her until we had to share the office together. It actually turned out to be the best thing and she became a great friend!
An old adage it may be, but life has an interesting way of teaching the real meaning behind “Don’t Judge A Book By It’s Cover.” When you do judge someone before you get to know them, you may just miss out on something pretty special.
What do you think?
Stephanie Lema 
I was very shy as a child and even through high school, and I didn’t realized until years later that I often came across as stuck-up. Great post, and thanks for the shout out. 🙂
LikeLike
Crazy isn’t it… shy to one is stuck-up to another. I’m glad for what the experience taught me though 🙂 And… you are more than welcome for the shout out!!
LikeLike
I often get judged as being stand-off-ish in person because I’m also very shy. My son is currently going through this as well – it’s tough!
LikeLike
It is very tough and I can relate, too. I can be shy in some situations as well, especially in new surroundings. I try to push myself a bit even if it’s out of my comfort zone. I figure what’s the worst that can happen?!
LikeLike
That is EXACTLY how things went down with my husband! I didn’t even think about him/us until I read yours!!! Glad you made a great friend!!!
LikeLike
I’m glad it worked out with your hubby! Meant to be 🙂
LikeLike
So true! Thanks for sharing and Happy WMW!
LikeLike
Happy WMW Susan!
LikeLike
Great post! I wholeheartedly agree! 🙂 I’m usually ok with strangers on a one to one basis, but feel a little self-conscious in a group situation – especially if I’m the only outsider! This is something I need to work on!…
Annette
http://www.mammakerr.com
LikeLike
Thank you for your comment! I concur with the group setting. I work on it a bit at a time to shake-up my own comfort zone.
LikeLike
This is so true. Sometimes it just take a little time to get to know people and see who they really are.
Great post!
LikeLike
Great post! Earlier in my career, I had such a hard time “fitting in” with my coworkers, and I was informed I came off as arrogant and stand-off-ish. And I just wanted to be in the “cool” crowd that hung out after hours! I now do my best to welcome new coworkers no matter what their initial demeanor, remembering my shy beginnings.
LikeLike
So much wiser as we get older aren’t we?! I try to welcome people that are new, too. It can be intimidating when you start at a new office.
LikeLike
we do that ALLLL the time!! i know i do!! great post, really makes me think about how i treat people i don’t know!
LikeLike
Thanks Julia! Really enjoy WMW 🙂
LikeLike