How to be a Boss

Like many creatives and Etsy sellers, this is not my full time job. I adore the creative hustle, but my day job involves button-ups, cubicles, and terrible coffee. That’s right: I work in the corporate world. Much of what I’ve learned in my career has been applicable to my side hustle, and vice versa.

As a woman in an industry dominated by men (hello, engineering) I’ve seen some things. I may be on the young side, but my work history is extensive and colorful. I’ve spent time in three different engineering firms as well as retail, customer service, and – wait for it – pest control. You could say I’ve worked my way through a couple fields. Along the way I’ve also learned a few things, so here you go!

1. Stop stop STOP Saying “Sorry”

Face it, you probably say it more than you need to. And it’s so hard to stop, I know from personal experience. Now face it, you’re not sorry about a damn thing. Embrace your inner badass and say what you mean! Whether it’s “excuse me”, “got a second?”, or “it’s early and you’re blocking the freaking coffee”. Just like saying “um” or “like” when talking, don’t let “sorry” become another filler word in your vocabulary.

2. Curse More

Your read that right. I’m not saying you should let loose in front of customers, but there’s nothing wrong with speaking freely in front of  your coworkers, especially if it’s a male-dominated environment. I recently had a senior coworker downright apologize for cursing in front of me, saying he didn’t want to offend my “sensitive ears”. (Sh*t you not). So for the sake of your mental and emotional health, screw the filters and say what you really mean. Especially if everyone else already does.

3.  Stop Eating Crap

You’re a busy career woman, I get it. You’ve got a job and maybe even a side hustle. You hate vegetables. And cooking. And you know what? That’s okay, but stop letting it be your excuse! There are plenty of ways to improve your diet painlessly. Ditch the morning bagel for a smoothie and oatmeal. Skip the greasy lunch and eat something with actual protein. Your skin will clear up, your hair will be softer, and you’ll actually have some energy. Not to mention there are plenty of subscriptions out there which will deliver you healthy food for the same price of take-out.

4. Stop Fad Dieting

Wait didn’t I just tell you to eat better? Sure did, which means no more fad diets. Deep down, you already know they don’t work. They make you tired and cranky, and they ruin your metabolism. Eat real food instead; your body and your waistline will thank you.

Lastly, don’t forget that life is short. No food is off limits either, so eat the donut and don’t think twice about it.

5. Move More

You’re body and mind function at their best when you’re active. Stop waiting for exercise inspiration to hit you and make a real habit. For me, that means waking an hour earlier so I can go to the gym.

Not your thing? Invest in a Fitbit. Walking really adds up, and you can do it during the work day to promote blood flow to your exhausted brain. Not to mention recent studies have shown that walking has even more benefits (and burned calories!) than we initially thought.

6. Write. Down. Everything.

Unless you have photographic memory, you’re probably a regular human being that forgets things. Maybe your desk is littered with post-it notes or crumpled memos. Or perhaps you occasionally write things on your arm (guilty).

Stop that already. Invest in a couple of notebooks and keep a daily record of everything you do and need to remember. Ever heard of a bullet journal? It allows you to track your tasks every single day and stay on top of your game. My notebooks include my to-do lists, important names, meeting notes, and even quotes of things people have said. Not only is everything in one place, you now have a record of what you accomplished every day.

7. Give Credit Where It’s Due

On my last business trip, a coworker of mine (we’ll call him John) expressed concern that another colleague wanted to take credit for his work in order to get a certification. Seeing how this was a super awkward situation, John didn’t know how he should say “why no, you can’t take credit for my work”.

So what did I do? I sent out an email documenting all the work done during the trip, and marked each person’s name next to what they completed. Not only did John get credit for his work, he also didn’t have to deal with the awkward encounter.

What’s the moral of the story? Give people credit, no matter what. Your colleagues will respect you and it’ll show that you have the qualities of a fair leader. Because you’re awesome like that!

8. Don’t Laugh it Off

If you work in STEM like me, you’ve probably heard your fair share of inappropriate or sexist comments in the work place.

“Oh I thought you must be a business major” – Job Recruiter

“Want to go out some time?” – My Professor

“Oh well you’re a woman, they have to hire some of those” – Every One Ever

Not to mention many more that I won’t write here. It’s easy to smile and nod when you hear this crap, except for the fact that it eats you up inside. So don’t smile. Don’t nod. Look them in the eyes, and say “that’s inappropriate”. That’s all it takes.

Standing your ground may feel terrifying, but you’re worth it. Set the precedent that you don’t take anyone’s crap, and that other women shouldn’t either. Being a little fearless makes for a great leader.

9. Know When to Stop

You come in early, then stay late. You’re up to your neck in responsibilities, but you take that extra project anyways. You’ve forgotten what a vacation day feels like – all in the name of improving your career.

Your career is doing great, but you’re downright exhausted. Coffee has basically replaced sleep at this point. But this is not the Sims, and that’s not how it works!

What you need are some boundaries. Boundaries that allow you to have a work-life balance and actually come home before dark. Whether it’s leaving by 3:00 every day so you can hit the gym, or saying “no” to the extra project – you deserve it. A real boss knows that their time is valuable, and while they’re great at their job – it’s not their whole life.

10. Be Ready to Walk Away

Sounds counterintuitive, I know. All your time and suffering only to leave for another job? Precisely.

If your job is making you miserable, you need an exit plan. Even if your job isn’t making you miserable – have an exit plan. Go to interviews and job fairs; don’t be afraid to get your name out there. There’s nothing wrong with being competitive and looking for your dream job. Employers love people with great vision and determination – be one of them.

Like this article or have something to add? Let me know in the comments!