Professional largesse

Damn my habit of checking definitions in Web11, because it turns out "largesse" doesn't mean quite what I thought it did, but it's still the word I feel like using, so now I have to cope with the knowledge that I'm inaccurately wielding words. (Um, copyeditor, much?)

Anyway. On to the subject at hand: I have done two workplace-related things today that were assertive challenges and thus wanted to pat myself on the back via blog.

(1) My supervisor took me and the two other women I work with out to lunch today. It was an appreciated gesture, but outside-the-workplace co-worker interactions are hardly my speciality, particularly when supervisors are involved. We went to an upscale Mexican restaurant and it became clear early on that my three companions were all interested in ordering tacos. I, however, had my sights set on the prix fixe lunch special, which cost $8-$16 more than a taco plate. In the past I would have changed my order to be more in keeping with my peers, particularly since it was unclear as to whether my supervisor was spending her own money or company cash. But after some internal debate and the assertion of my worth I decided I really wanted the prix fixe meal and that regardless of who was paying, my supervisor owed me. I enjoyed every bite.

(2) I have spent the last couple of weeks laboring over a top-secret project that is being revealed this afternoon at a meeting I do not normally attend. Having put so much energy into the project, and knowing that its reception will likely be unfriendly, I really wanted to witness the presentation. In the past I would have ruled out the possibility immediately, but after mentally asserting the value of my contributions and the status I (believe I should) hold, I approached my dept. head and asked—tactfully, if you can believe it—whether my presence at the staff meeting might be beneficial. He confirmed my inner suspicion that it would not...but at least I asked.

In conclusion, while these acts of assertion may seem small—and perhaps they are—they are progress nonetheless and, therefore, yay for me!