Ah, the world of waitressing! A role where you don a smile and assure guests they’ll receive the best service, even as they bombard you with complaints and demands. My years as a server during college taught me invaluable lessons about human behavior, which have proven essential as I navigate the challenges of motherhood. Here are five key ways my waitressing background has informed my parenting journey:
1. Identify the Difficult Ones
As I stood at my station observing new diners, I quickly learned to gauge their energy. I’d approach them with a bright smile, only to be interrupted by demands for drinks before I could finish my greeting. This experience parallels parenting. Just yesterday, my son approached me, looking adorable in his oversized pajamas, and before I could say “Good morning,” he interrupted, instructing me on the precise chocolate milk cup he wanted. In both scenarios—serving difficult customers and parenting—it’s crucial to remain calm, not take rudeness to heart, and model respect.
2. Own Your Mistakes
In the restaurant industry, there were moments of panic when I realized I’d forgotten to place an order for a table. It was tempting to blame the kitchen for delays, but a valuable lesson emerged: accountability is key. Now, when my house is in disarray or I’m running late due to my children, I remind myself that sometimes, I need to take responsibility. This understanding leads to personal growth, even if I have to keep a stash of snacks on hand as a distraction.
3. Embrace the Mess
During my first week as a server, I experienced the chaos of spilled drinks and dropped meals. The aftermath often left me feeling overwhelmed, much like the early days of motherhood when I encountered baby reflux and diaper blowouts. Now, my experience as a server helps me recognize that messes are a natural part of life, whether it’s food on the floor or sticky hands. I’ve learned to let go of perfection because it can always get worse!
4. Tuning Out Complaints
In the restaurant business, guests expressed dissatisfaction over minor issues, such as ice levels in their drinks or the spiciness of their meals. This has prepared me for the relentless complaints of toddlers who seem to have a knack for declaring meals “not good enough.” When my son criticizes his dinner, I remind myself of my time as a server, smiling and acknowledging his feelings while maintaining my composure—sometimes, you just need to step back and appreciate the absurdity.
5. Prioritize the Kids
As a server, I quickly learned that engaging children was essential for receiving good tips. Ensuring their needs were met first often led to satisfied parents. Now, with my boys, I understand the importance of making them feel valued. When they are happy, the entire family atmosphere improves. This lesson has been invaluable, especially when I’m out in public, as I’ve learned that kindness towards my children translates to goodwill towards me.
In conclusion, the skills I honed while waitressing serve me well in motherhood. I look forward to the day when my children can experience the same growth through their own jobs. I’ll happily point them toward the nearest restaurant and wait for their stories of hectic shifts and challenging customers. They will learn essential life skills, including the importance of treating service workers with respect.
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