Simply Op

7/11/26 After resigning from my position, I have been taking notice of what I am going to refer to as the “Goodbye Effect.” It is the moment that people come into full focus again because the time you have left with them is limited. The stress clouds from work seem to dissipate enough to reprioritize gratitude and appreciation. Simple things come to the forefront of my mind like how I was going to miss hovering behind the front office administrator when I was avoiding my own work, greeting patients/parents in the clinic lobby, making jokes with those who appreciate humor, delighting in how funny children can be, convincing the kids to play soccer because I wanted to, and capturing alignment of values in action. These are only examples and I imagine I could think of countless more.

Despite sometimes feeling alone at work, I was never truly alone. I was surrounded by opportunities for connection. I do regret that a lot of opportunities were missed. With a little more effort, we could have enjoyed more simple lunches together, walk breaks, number exchanges, and/or even meet ups outside of work. Sometimes, you just realize it when it is a little too late. The Goodbye Effect prompted us to work harder to show up for each other in those last days together.

How we show-up does not go unnoticed. You can make a difference in the lives of others without being deeply connected to them. As I read the cards that were given to me, I highlighted the words that represented where the impact lies…

– welcoming
– gracious
– growth
– thoughtful
– reflective
– invest
– support
– listen
– guidance
– calm
– space
– laugh
– hugs
– empathy
– grace
– encouragement
– insight
– compassionate
– hard work
– collaboration
– care
– helping
– kindness
– positivity
– dedication
– conversations
– amazing
– smile
– admirable
– genuine
– understanding
– chats
– beautiful
– wonderful
– valued
– appreciated
– gifted (“with special kiddos”)
– make a difference
– service
– learned
– talks
– joy
– creativity
– wisdom
– patient
– try
– time
– effort
– hope
– supervisor
– mentor
– journey

The same people I was afraid to let down actually cared about my general well-being. Not one card highlighted the mistakes I had made, the areas I fall short, or anything with productivity/monetary relevance. People want the best for you no matter where that is. Replaceable (in my role), I am. As hard as I am on myself, I can see now that I was doing a lot right. Because of the above, I will be missed and I will not be forgotten in the stories of others. And they will not be forgotten in mine. ❤

Comment: The Goodbye Effect is like the commonly heard “Live everyday like it is your last” or “Don’t wait until it’s too late”. Essentially, don’t wait for the goodbye, don’t miss the opportunities to focus on what truly matters, and take time to connect. xo