Good Morning. Not in command any more

I really struggle with not acting like I'm the commander any more. It was so much a part of me for so long it's hard to make that adjustment but I'm trying. At work I try to fill the role of SME (subject matter expert) with the younger kids in my office and I work with the rest of the team in a way that supports the government and contractor leads--that's the tough one. I try to focus on making the government lead look good--that's my mission--while not running over the rest of the team. Oh boy, that's hard.

Anyway, if I come across as the commander here, pull me back a little. Gently, if you don't mind. :)  I'm a WLS vet, yes, but I'm not in charge. This is your collective board for lightweights of all surgery types *****ceive all kinds of guidance from your WLS team. I don't particularly care for some of the guidance and I will continue to put my own point of view out here but it's just another opinion like any body's. Do what works for you and you feel best doing. Judge for yourself if your labs are good enough by doing your own research and tracking your labs to look for trends. Judge for yourself if the diet you're following is good enough and working fast enough for you.

Don't be afraid to ask questions and look for ideas here. We have found different things that work well for us individually and we love to tell you all about it. :)

Y'all have a great Monday.  What's on your mind today?

--g

 Some people are natural born leaders, Gina.  Embrace who you are.  I enjoy your input on this board.  You have been an inspiration and dare I say, a mentor.  Thank you for that.

Tonya

Thanks, Tonya. Well, I'm of to fight my battles for the day. Have a good one!

I've always thought you were pretty darn diplymatic, Gina.  We do all get a ton a varying advice from all kind of sources and certainly, not all of the are correct.  I think you try hard to present a learned view and real experience.  I appreciate that. 

I've got to go this afternoon for training in short term goal writing.  This is something I have been doing for 30+ years.  Wonder if they are going to tell me anything new????? 
Then, finish unpacking the trailer and figure out the week ahead.

Gina
I see you as a subject matter expert here.  You also help set a very positive tone for the board, that keeps it very friendly.  You've been EXTREMELY helpful for me, with lots of encouragement and advice.  All of your advice is in line with that of my doc's office, and is spot on.  You've helped me be more questioning and assertive with my healthcare team - not only with WLS, but also with other issues that don't come up here.    That's what a leader does - guide others to the best possible outcome.

I've appreciated it very much.

Amen

Gina, if it hadn't been for your SME on lightweights and the DS in particular, I would have floundered. I wish I were as diplomatic as you are...sometimes my fingers get ahead of my thoughts. But this software doesn't help matters as quoting stuff from offline is damned near impossible.

Have a good Monday...we are off to see our new grandbaby...heading to AL today and will be back on Wed. Would have gone this weekend but my MIL's house was already full, LOL, "no room at the inn". And they had the race nearby (she lives WAY too close to Talladega)

And yes, we plan on getting pictures!

Liz

This is why I love this board.  Are you still active duty.  My Dad was old Army.  He was a retired Lt. Colonel and never gave up that coveted position.  That is okay.  In spite of all the drama that existed in our family with its very ugly breakdown, one thing was certain - my Dad was the to go person for information.  He was insightful, logical, and we knew we could count on his expertise.

I can't imagine how difficult your role must be.That is quite a transition.  Is your younger team accommodating and respectful?  My husband has been in the chemical industry 40 years.  He has commissioned more than a few plants, different proccess in various locations.   In spite of all his experience, expertise and insight, the younger men he works with consider him out-of-touch... an old timer.  It does not matter that he can warn someone about doing something a certain way explaining what happens if they go forward.  They do not listen, and the inevitable happens.  I hope your younger team values the knowledge you bring to the team.

I bet you were an outstanding commander/

 hey Gina!  many, including myself, look to you as a mentor, SME and friend  ive never thought "take over" anything on this board  you  give sound advice  

I took a nice hour long walk on the beach today - trying to clear my mind and dcide where my future may take me.  trying to type this on my blackberry.  not working as we as I'd hoped!  i have pretty much decided I'll be going back to Michigan  Grandbaby #2 is on the way and I've decided that is more important than a 2nd career here.  Now just hoping my job will go with me.  If it doesn't I'll figure it out  

Meanwhile I'm going to enjoy my vacation!  having a great time and relaxing  

Aw Jody, seems like you just got moved.  I can't imagine moving again this soon but maybe you aren't really unpacked and settled.  I hope the job works out.  I think things are improving but it isw still tough out there.  I can certainly understand wanting to be near the grandbabies though.  Enjoy the rest of your vacation, for sure.