I'm sitting here in my office at this hour, alone. I'm finishing up my work.
It's quiet.
.
.
.
It's peaceful.
In a flash, I'm already at the end of my third month at CP. I remember when I first started, I did not have any motivation to work here because I wasn't learning anything. How things have changed. In the last 3 months, I've gained much creative control in editorial, from selecting what products and articles go into the magazine to determining the pagination and layout. The departments come to me for editorial control, and I'm humbled.
This is attributed to the lack of, or rather the nonexistent leadership of the editor, who is, I am glad to say, the ex-editor after the March issue. I personally think that when you possess the authority to control and supervise, you should also know how to take responsibility. Do not give weak excuses for your mistakes, and especially do not blame others for them. A good leader does not only own up to mistakes, they also protect their subordinates.
Never till now, have I come across a superior who tries to impose her power on whatever she can for no reason other than self-gratification, causes problems and then goes behind your back to wiggle her way out, turns down her subordinate's request for help, does not apologize for her mistakes, merajuks when things do not go her way, and does not reply work-related e-mails and phone calls because I told her off for offending me! Irresponsible. Childish.
But I shall not harp. Back to work, I feel that I've been given the unique opportunity to learn. I am learning from those around me, I am learning from those I meet, and most of all, I am learning from myself. As a fresh writer in the publishing industry and with no superior to guide me, I am forced to learn to make the best decisions for the magazine myself, to guide and liaise with people with utmost patience, to manage the flow of work in my own time, and to basically trust my own self. In many ways, I am thankful for this learning curve.
Ironically, April is my month. In the editorial team for April issue is me, me, and... hah. Me. No, I'm not laughing in glee. I'm laughing because I'm getting ready for my doom.
But you know what? I'm going to do all I can to make April the best issue yet.
It IS my month, after all =)
