I love to read the advice columns. “Ask Ann Landers” and “Dear Abby” first appeared in newspapers three months apart in October, 1955 and January, 1956 and immediately gained huge followings. Written by twin sisters Esther Pauline “Eppie” Friedman (“Ask Ann Landers”) and Pauline Esther Friedman (“Dear Abby”), the sisters – who were fierce rivals – dealt with every subject imaginable. After the author of “Dear Abby” died, the column was taken over by her daughter Jeannie Phillips and continues to appear in newspapers today.
When I saw this one a couple of weeks ago, my first response was, “This has to be a joke”. And yet, when my clients tell me about the attitudes of some of their employees, I have to believe that this letter to “Dear Abby” is authentic. Are you ready for this? Here goes….
Dear Abby,
Recently, I was late to work because I slept in and my boss was upset about it. But the thing is – it’s really none of his business, is it? What I do on my own time isn’t the business of my employer. I don’t ask him what he does when he isn’t here.
This has happened a few times, and I know it might present a problem, but I don’t think it’s his place to tell me what to do outside of work. How is that legal?
I need the extra sleep in the mornings because I like to stay out late at night, which is my right as an American. If I need extra sleep in order to perform my job at a higher level, then isn’t it better for the company that I sleep in? I’m hearing blame when I should be hearing thank you.
My Business in Indiana
Are you kidding? This letter elicited a variety of emotions. At first, my mouth dropped open in stunned disbelief. Then, I laughed. And then I became a little angry and annoyed. Here’s what “Abby” had to say.
Dear My Business,
Forgive me if this seems harsh, but your boss’s business is his business. Businesses have regular hours of operation, which are usually stated in the employee handbook you should have read when you were being hired. It’s the duty of an employee to show up on time and in condition to perform his or her job.
I’m not surprised your boss is upset. It’s a natural response when an employee who’s relied upon acts irresponsibly, which is what you have been doing. Because you prioritize your social life above your work life, consider looking for a job that starts later or has flexible hours. You may need it.
When I read advice columns, I like to think how I would have answered the question. “Abby’s” response was right on target. I couldn’t have said it better myself.
In a 1964 “Wizard of Id” cartoon strip, illustrator Brant Parker and gag writer Johnny Hart published this classic cartoon.
Bottom line: If you don’t like the rules, find your gold somewhere else.
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