Naïve Quitting
2010-05-24
My first real job was as the librarian at Warner/Chappell Music.
I loved it. I was 20 years old, just graduated college, just moved to New York City. I took it really seriously and learned a lot.
After 2½ years, though, I decided to quit to be a full-time musician. (Partially because I was too happy there! If I didn't force myself to quit, I was scared I'd never leave. Too comfortable.)
Since I had never quit a job before, and didn't know how, I did what seemed to be the respectful and considerate thing to do: find and train my replacement.
(It wasn't my boss's fault I wanted to quit, so why should I make it his problem? If I want to quit, it's my problem.)
I called on my old friend Nikki, who I knew would be perfect, and offered her my job at my current salary.
She came with me to the office for a week while I trained her in every aspect of the job.
Once she had it mastered, I went into my boss's office on a Friday afternoon and said, “I need to quit now, but I've already trained my replacement. She's great. She'll take over for me starting Monday.”
My boss just looked a little stunned, then said, “Uh. Well. OK. We'll miss you. Tell her to see HR about the paperwork.” And that was that.
10 years later, I'm running my own company, and for the first time, an employee tells me he needs to quit.
I said, “Drag. Well. OK. I wish you the best! Who's your replacement?”
He looked confused.
I said, “Have you found and trained a replacement yet?”
He looked a little stunned, then said, “No.... I think that's your job.”
Now I was stunned. I asked a few friends, and found out he was right. People can just quit a job without finding and training their replacement. I had no idea. All these years, I just assumed what I did was normal.
There's a benefit to being naïve to the norms of the world.
Deciding from scratch what seems like the right thing to do, instead of just doing what others do.
Positive anomie.
Derek - what a remarkable guy you are. More individuals like you, sharing viewpoints that make the world a more productive place, is what helps shape a culture and push things in a more positive direction. Thanks for taking the time to do so.
as always... very nice. I'm in Sweden now, but next time in Rio we should meet!
Best, Nelson
Derek, always love your thought provoking posts ! The world could do with more people with your outlook.
I think it depends greatly on whom you work for... and if that place gave you anything
Oh, great, another distraction in life as mermaids are forever washing up on my beach as well, Derek!
Hmmm, life is definitely about giving back more than you get. I was given great gifts from others, not only how to play music but play life as well. I always liked Smokey the Bear's motto when it came time to take care of the forest, "Always pack out more than you pack in."
Right, Derek - karma, never too late to spread some of the good stuff.
WoW,
All This Time I Thought I Was The Only One Who Maintained A Set Of Standards, That No One Else Gave A U Know What About, At The Time , Like U Say It Was Just The Right Thing To Do, It Just Made SENSE !!
Respect D.,
Dr.X / Solomon
That is called being considerate of others - something that we forget sometimes..
Hi Derek,
I remember training my replacement, my Boss's son. When my Boss asked me to train his son to be my assistant, I knew it would be just a matter of time before he replaced me. I thought his son the lessons I had accumulated over many years, and pushed him to learn skills that I didn't have. When I think about that time in my life, I don't have any regrets. I made the right decision to do right by this great kid, who also happened to belong to the lucky gene club.
That is a great little tale. I agree, more thoughtful people would make things a whole heap easier.
Happy Trails.
By The way,
ANOMIE, Interesting The Wiki...... Description Reminds Me Of Japan !!
I hear that Derek! If society is a indicator of the norm or what they say is supposed to be normal, then I'll just stay wrapped up in God's will for me and think outside the box of this society to achieve His will in and through my life.
Derek, I really didn't expect you to do any posting while you & your soulmate were off globetrotting... It's good to see you back friend
Thank you Derek, It's a very important point of view.
Assuming too much can get us into "trouble" in life!
D. THEME
I wonder.... If I have a guy that is working for my company and I want to fire him, I am now thinking about finding him a new job first!
That's what they do in France and Germany. Because worker-protection laws make it so hard to fire someone, you find him a new job somewhere else. -- Derek
I wouldn't mind being happy and 'too comfortable'. What the hell is that like? ;)
Like sitting in a bathtub for too long. -- Derek
Derek You don't have to apologize for an absence of two months! It's still your honeymoon period, I would think. I didn't expect to hear from you this soon. lol 'Naive Quitting' - great piece. You are a naturally thoughtful man. This is good advice...provided there is someone around to train.
Yea, you are right. My sister in law and her husband are in Italy and they are very well protected by the labor laws. I just have this guy I'd like to send packing. I might just find him a new home!!!
What you did was normal, for sure! An ethical orientation that provided continuity & fluidity in the business processes and a good karma for you ;)
I assume that, up to the point where your first employee informed you of his leaving, you had worked for only one employer, Warner/Chappell Music. And from that experiece, you assumed that this is how employee selection, training and retention is handled in the real world? By those employees who are about to leave for greener pastures and so go about the task of finding a fill-in?
-- Derek
Seriously?
Naive, indeed.
... and proud of it.
Very Cool. I had a similar situation in South Florida back in 1990. I was working at a record store when the band I'd been moonlighting with got a record deal with a major label. I could have walked out of my job right there and then. Instead, I told the boss, who was thrilled for me but sad to see me go. I suggested a current employee that I knew was the most qualified to do the job I did. My boss was happy and so was my replacement. A few years later she surprised me by showing up backstage when my band played CBGBs. She informed me that she too suggested and trained another employee before she left the job. Paying it forward.
A very interesting story that makes you think.
beautiful as always Derek. I am drawn to naive people , they are less hardened/ cynical too. Warmest wishes.
Hi Derek, good to see you back...
(not naïve)good example of the "Golden Rule".
Reff:
http://bible.cc/matthew/7-12.htm
It's cool that your first boss accepted your replacement that you had chosen. You must have had a really cool boss who wasn't all that controlling.
He knew how much I loved that job, and how much it meant to me, so when I told him I'd found a great replacement, he knew that wasn't a flip decision. -- Derek
Simplistic ignorance of other people's systems (also known as the norm) is what sets successful entrepreneurs apart. In other words, it is one's ability to view situations from multiple points of view that gives us the perspective to succeed in whatever we're doing. Great lesson, Derek.
Nice insight, Jake! Hadn't thought of that. Thank you for the wise comment. -- Derek
Great!!! And a really nice point of wiev , should be like that, but did anyone train you before enter at your first job ?
I had some of those same experiences as well. Growing up in a small fishing community in Alaska, my norm was much different than what I encountered when I went away to college.
Now, as a business owner I am experiencing the different norms between my generation (gen x) and the generation I am hiring (gen y), especially in terms in work ethic. Any advice?
as usual, you are unusual! I will be re-telling this story to my friends, family and business associates Thanks, Derek! Take care and welcome back I've missed those nuggets
Yea I would of been scared to train a new person before telling the boss incase they didnt hire the person I trained... It all worked out well though. Yes sitting in a bath too long if we dont pull the plug someone else will. We have to move on if we are challenged its the law of the universe... Its the universe that will pull the plug and make us move on. Doing the right thing by others way to go... I know a bloke that totaly abuses his job and knows he cant be sacked without major reason. He doesnt do his job but he does just enough to keep it that he doesnt get a major reason against him...Good on ya Derek great topic
What a great Derek story. It's so you
Cool story, as always Derek. Was just left wondering one thing... how did the job work out for Nikki? =)
Your success completely inspires me. Keep em coming!
As I read this I was watching my 3-year-old son play with lego and the thought that crossed my mind was, hey - that's why we had a kid! We're going to have to leave at some point, so we figured we'd start training our replacement. (I'm pretty sure he'll do a better job than me...)
LOL. Derek, you got me to laugh tonight. Thanks. My mouth was open in awe, then it became a smile and then a laugh. I was dumbfounded when I finished reading your little treat. I for one think it's wonderful that you were naive in such a respectful and considerate way. This world could do with some more "Dereks."
Hi Derek,
As always your posts and essays are positive and thought-provoking. You must have worked for some unusual people, though. The ones I've come in contact with are always looking for ways to cut jobs when someone quits.
"Trained up your own replacement, have you? Who ever said I would want to replace you?? Goodbye and good luck to you."
Paul
Being Naive is a great trait. It leaves the door open for incredible possibility. Great story D, any advice on how to remain Naive? or how to develop a certain sense of naivete?
Thats really nice of you to consider
that, your willing to train someone
and think of others[boss] usually
no-one considers how much it puts
others out, but thats a really
touching story good on you I really
admire you for that thanx Derek
After years of telling people to learn as much as possible about their chosen calling are you now recommending the opposite? As a lowly employee you maybe have some excuse but as a boss you should know what your responsibilities are. You should be proud of your achievements . Being naive is not an achievement or a virtue. Assumption is the mother of all f*&kups. However I totally agree with you that independent thinking is good.
changing one person at a time
if it comes from your heart and feels right to YOU, that's the right thing to do
(Unless you're a serial killer)
I like your idea that people should take personal responsibility for the continuation of their job role without prompting from the employer. By training others both the quitter and the employer gain, a Pareto improvement in the industry.
Hello Derek,
Thought provoking comments as always but,in reality you have a blessed heart and you will always think of others in your ideal world.You have alot of "get up and go" unfortunately,alot of people get up and go without a care.
Take good care Mr Sivers you are loved.
not many understand that 'you reap what you sow'....I'm pretty sure that employee had to learn the hard way that 'what goes around, comes around.
I think the point about following your own instincts is apropos.
But, naivety aside, sometimes taking on too much responsibility for the impact of your decisions can leave you paralyzed. What if you had not been able to find a suitable replacement? How long would you hold off on moving on with your vision of playing music to keep from inconveniencing your employer?
Question:
How do you cope with other people thinking you're an idiot? Unfortunately someone very dear to me thinks that I don't live in the 'real world' when I do things like that. Or when I forgive people 'too easily'.
Success (of any size) or happiness (any) is its own explanation, isn't it? If something works for you, whether in rewards or peace-of-mind, doesn't that justify your “unreal” approach? -- Derek
great stuff as usual
wow, your approach was amazing, and France and Germany's too. ;-)
See! When you do something you love - even while leaving it for a higher purpose you leave a mark behind.
Go ahead, break all barriers and do what you love!
Thanks Derek.
I like this a lot. I find myself doing things like that then realizing the other people think I'm really breaking from tradition on something - which in my book usually means doing the right thing. But it can lead to feeling isolated out in the water in your own boat, but that's where the real thinkers can be found. Since they have time to think before the wind blows them back to shore...Thanks D for the words of the wise
that is so cute! having working since the age of 16 (Switzerland is a beautiful place, isn't it?) I learned quite early this kind of stuff. Actually here we need to give a month or two of notice before leaving and if the boss is smart, he finds a replacement that we are supposed to train before leaving.
What we are doing at my current job is write as many procedure as we can, so if one is missing, the job can go on. I tend not to write so many procedures, that's my mean side. haha.
As for the too comfi, I feel you Sir. That's why I applied to that music school, to shake my world a little bit.
Hope you are enjoying your trip.
A good boss, like a good teacher, is always looking to learn from those who have the "beginner's mind."
interesting to see how we behave/approach things when we love what we do. well done u for even considering this conduct :>
HaaaaaHaaaaaa!You have me cracking up like crazy,i always enjoy a good story loaded with fun and laughter,well, what i have to say is very simple.Do unto others as you would like others to do unto you.Well done Derek.
I just sat up in bed and wondered why we hadn't heard from Derek. And so we have. Thanks for that perspective.
Thank you for sharing that Derek. very moving and very timely, as always. Thinking of you and hoping all is well!
Derek:
Your "Naive Quitting" was a great way to start my day. My advice: write a book on parenting.Any parent with a brain would read it and raise their kids to be thoughtful, engaged, caring human beings like you.You could be the 21st century child rearing guru that our society needs so badly. And maybe we parents could learn a thing or two ourselves along the way. The best advice I was ever given was by a fellow classmate at Holy Apostles College and Seminary in Cromwell, Ct. It was : "Remember Love." Your "Naive Quitting" post is testimony to that sage advice. Whatever we think about doing or however we feel ourselves reacting to others or to some event in our lives, remember love.
Always enjoy reading you and the comments here have also been wonderful.
nearly 60 employers in my past and i can truthfully say that only two left me not hating every moment i spent there. i met great people, learned lots of neat stuff, and more stories to tell than most.
first, a necessary distinction:
'work' is indeed a good thing, the effort put forth to accomplish something. i'm 'working' to teach myself to play the piano (my teacher sucks).
'employment' is being paid to 'work.' in and of itself, this isn't a bad thing, but the pervading 'business model' has helped greatly in the dehumanization of good men and women.
they call us 'human resources' these days. they demand our 'humanity' but actually care about us less than they do other 'resources' such as a computer monitor.
and in virginia, at least, it's all about 'at will' employment. bold disclaimers on every application warn you that your employment can be terminated at any time for any reason, or for no reason.
'at will' works both ways so, after all these years, when it's time to move on, personally, i simply walk away.
it is, i think, reduced to passion. when paid to do work and passion is absent, employment is reduced to a twenty-dollar bill left on the nightstand.
every negative thing i've learned in life--lying, cheating, stealing, control and manipulation of others--i learned from employers. derek, you're one of those rare birds able to always rise above it all. i couldn't (could be a matter of simply too stubborn for my own good?) so i go from frying pan to fire...
you be well and stay safe...
randy
Hi Derek. I always work under the rule of work at your job as if it was your own business. Had a couple of lousy jobs but the bottom line is your employer is still putting food on your table. I think we forget that sometimes.
Ranj.
Excellent. I used to think like that when I was 20. Wonder why I lost it along the way...?
Yes, Derek, I agree with you on this one. We should try to do what's best in our hearts, and not worry if it's the proper thing to do. How many people have told me to go on Canadian Idol, 'cause they feel it's right for me. Well I'm taking the road I feel is the right path for me. May Indies unite this world.
Peace@U
Sean McCready
Every true genius is bound to be naive.”
Friedrich von Schiller quote
Great to hear from you Derek,
we miss you at cdbaby!
Derek,good moral. I hope to be naive for the rest of my life. All the best to you and yours.
it is very important message you have pointed out here.
You have an understanding of service to others,
It's probably always been there, you're joy is in helping, communicating and sharing. I always find benefit in your posts.
I recently quit my last job and it will be my last job in the automotive business, it was a cold environment, Enough already. I started piano lessons again to spark my creativity, Learned the Keith Jarrett take on " Somewhere over the Rainbow, read Rework and The Four Agreements. Have you ever heard of Don Miguel Ruiz ? Remarkable book.
Thanks Derek, Peace my friend.
I was only allowed to do that once. I was tired of my job after 11 years and gave my boss 2 months notice. I told him to hire someone so I could train him/her. I told a friend to apply, she did and she got the job. I trained her and left. She rose to a very high status in the company. I did good for them.
Love reading everyone's comments... Hi everyone. Also, this falls into the "pull-pull" category of good energy -- you never know when that replacement you trained so well and pulled into a great job someday might be in top management and ready to pull your son or daughter into their first great job
).
Derek:
I have to agree with Will. You are remarkable. I have never heard of finding a replacement and training them. In education, we serve on a hiring board to replace ourselves, and when a newbie is hired, we have a mentoring program in place no matter how many years the newbie might have under their belt. I think this should be the norm in education and maybe even in the business world. As far as you leaving because you became too comfortable, I can relate to this. I have left jobs for no good reason except to challenge myself. And now I am a bit nervous to leave education and pursue my new music biz job. But, determined to make it work! Thanks again.
I tend to take everyone at face value, you get hurt sometimes, people say "That was a bit naive of you" but when it works, its great. I think many creators are a little naive, to be anything other I think would prove negative and unproductive.
At the end of the day though, I have cushioned myself, I work from home, I produce my music in house, distribute through the security of cdbaby
I have passed the gift of music to my children and grandchildren, and they will hopefully replace me when I am sat on a cloud playing the harp. (Could not consider the next world unless music was involved somehow)and I trust that they will go forth with the same naivity, and that strangers will allow them to travel in peace.
There! you have done it again, I am back to rambling! keep up the good work.
I am in total agreement,sir. I actually am encouraged by your story of taking responsibility and hope it is an inspiration and ifluence to others. -Michael
Derek,
Thanx for your thoughtful insight! It's interesting how social norms/habits seem to change with time, like people adopting the norm that it's okay to ignore emails and not having the manners to reply. Yet, there are those folks still out there who, as you say, do the right thing instead of taking the easy road and doing what others do. Love that Mermaid!!!!!
Your momma taught you right. Our world would be so much better if folks were more considerate.
Now what would happen if you needed to fire someone, would you find them another job first? There's the twist.
Blessings,
Kim
I think it is better not to know. Because when you know, you also know what can't be done. So, I choice not to know.
I find your initial comments most interesting. Was the job too easy, not challenging enough? Were you hungry for something else?
What if you were the only librarian in a small town 6 hours drive away from anywhere that other librarians would wish to live, ie no hope of finding a replacement,... would you have stayed????
Obviously no-one dies for lack of a librarian, but the principle remains.
I have been helping to train "librarians" for the last 17 years, but so far, none have come back to replace me...
o well, i got it off my chest.
Ha! That really made me laugh. Just the approach that has got you where you are today. Some people are drains and some are radiators. You have to be a radiator
)
thank you! Thank you yet again for enlightening us and inspiring us to follow our conscience and CARE.
Thanks Derek,
The only other thing I would add is to not wait until you are ready to leave to train your replacement.
SIDE TRACK ALERT!!!
The good news about being a musician is that you don't have to deal with the bull shit of corporate life...and get up early.
The bad news is you have to deal with club owners and other musicians that just "want to play". Because they have real bull shit jobs, and do the music thing on the side. As a result screwing us who make a living playing out live, by lowering the price.
And now back to your lovely story...It's is cool that she took the initiative to find a replacement...however, I think she should have run all that by the boss before she told the other person they could have the job...that was not her decision.
The End
P.S> Im not bitter...just real
Other ideas that have worked well for me:
1) Take the time to write down everything you know about your job for the sake of the next guy, including specifics about projects. Seriously, what if you were the guy taking the job you're leaving?
2) Cheerfully and gratefully offer to mentor the next guy or someone in-house to do your job.
Not a requirement, but certainly a gesture of gratitude for helping you put food on your table.
Everyone likes to claim their bit as the "real" world. Its all real. Our responsibility for our actions depends on how far we can see their possible effects. We all have that power. Thanks Derek.
Well Derek, thanks so much for sharing another remarkable chapter in your life. Having been gainfully employed for some 55 years, made redundant twice and had the pleasure of training replacements for two of the best employers one could wish for really makes up for all the downsides of retirement.
May you forever stay young Mr.S
Best wishes always,
Bill "Saxman"
When I left the BBC, I went back after the leaving party to finish writing the technical manual for the slide scanner installations. Obsession or naiivity?
Derek . Some of your readers seem to believe that being naive is a virtue and something to attain to. Is this also your opinion/philosophy?
btw. one dictionary definition of being naive is having or showing a lack of experience, judgment, or information; credulous:
Derek,
Our idea of being fair is the same. You will never go wrong treating a person the way you want to be treated.
Frances
Such a rare and wonderful thing to find a true heart out here in the world. I love the idea of scratch decisions. It is the path of the iconoclast!
4 word synopsis= captain your own ship
Very enlightening Derek! You have a way of making us feel as if we've climbed the mountain and listened to the wise man there. You've set me to searching my own past for those moments when I was 'out of the know innocently'. The journey is surely worthwhile.
Thanks again Bro!
DEREK Combine all of the responces you've recieved and that is how I fell. Your parents obviously brought you up right and taught you values. That is very often missing in todays youth.
P.S. Enjoyed Darryl Hanah's photo, do you have any of her laying on her back?
Mr. "B"
where are you now Derek???
Last I heard you off to travel and selling a lot of your books.
I did love that story. people with
integrity. gotta love it. will you look at my website.????
thank you.
Talk about being naaive.I was in a state of indecision and my peace of mind was almost non-existence until I read this ."Don't put the key to your happiness in someone else's pocket -- keep it
in your own."
As usual your thoughts always help to put things in their right perspective. Thank you.Keep writing.
Keeping that naivety alive and well is the battle as we get grey with years of experience. I would like to start working in music and event planning again so maybe you could find a placement for me as you travel the world. I am already training my replacements.
Respect.
Being the better human.
Knowledge
Comfort of your own self.
Paving the better way to the future
Paving the better way to stepping stones you might have to walk back upon.
Doing what is right.
Taking a different step doesn't mean you are naive, it means you can step outside the required and do more.
I wish more people would take a healthier approach to their lives instead of just leaving it for other people to clean up. We might have less outsourcing and more gratifying jobs. and Happier self less People.
I worked as an engineer for almost 25 years and was not only good at what I did but loved the work. However, I basically ran out of challenges and quit to get back into the music business. Now I know I will never be famous or even known. But I am having a blast fighting the odds and because I have no illusions can just make music I like and the rest of the world can go sod off.
Great story, and it says an awful lot about your quality as an employee that your boss was cool with your decision. Have you ever gone back to visit with your first boss, or remained in touch?
Derek...... Do you have to do everything? Of course as it's part of your nature. I don't think it's naive.... thoughtful and pro active.
I remain naive but as I get older I find it's not so much being naive but after many experiences in the Business of Music..... not all have good intentions in this business. (eg: 30 years unpaid Royalties) However looking at everything with a cynical eye is not the way I chose.
A learning experience to say the least. One that tests you to the core and in a positive way makes you stronger as it dawns on you the just because someone writes a beautiful piece of music, does not guarantee a beautiful personality to go with it.
Cheers,
Iain
I certainly appreciate your blog and the insight that it often deliverers though I would like to make a few observations about Naïve Quitting. I am glad that your experience was so positive in finding a replacement and also in having your employer accept her. But I think that would often not go so smoothly – primarily because a great many people want to have control over who they work with. Many bosses want to go through the hiring process to assure themselves that the employee will “fit in”. So by side taking this step and doing it for your boss - not appreciated. Also I don’t see it as a two way street. An employer can fire you and you are expected to clear out right away while if you want to quit a job you are supposed to give at least a two week notice (I am talking about jobs like at a fast food place here). What if all employers needed to give a two week notice before letting you go? Also what if your former employee had answered your question, “Have you found and trained a replacement yet?” - With, “Well no, have you trained me for my new employment?” or “Why would I be so presumptuous to think that I know who you want to replace me?”
You can also bring good karma to getting fired.
When I was in college I was fired from the restaurant I was working at. I had missed a mandatory employee meeting, so it was totally my fault. The owner told me I was fired at the end of my shift. Instead of leaving right away I completed all of my closing work, cleaning up and putting things away like I always did. Everyone thought this was weird, but it seemed like the right thing to do.
After I was fired I would still come into the restaurant after class sometimes to eat and see my friends. Pretty soon I was asked if I wanted to pick up shifts here and there when people needed to be off. After a couple of weeks of this I was "picking up shifts" pretty much full time. The owner and I laughed about it, and she put me back on the schedule. She said, "well, I guess you're working here again anyway." It was funny. Things always work out.
Reading this made my morning. Thanks
Responsibility:simply put is the ability to respond but it's the way we respond that counts. You got an itch, you scratch it,you get an audit from the I.R.S.you freak out! But there is a sense of a moral compass that we all adhere to in various degrees depending on the circumstances and there are those who are members of the, "Hurray for me & screw you!", club whose only concern is for their own welfare, they have no moral compass! It's good to hear of a situation where the quiter of the job mentioned never quit following their moral compass & helped out of concern for the agency that had offered a helping hand in their music career by taking it upon themselves to find & train a replacement! Well done!
Nice to hear your thoughts again. I hope your travels treated you well.
Very thought provoking. I guess the norm is to be adversarial in such situations and that's too bad.
Peace brother.
TommyH
That's great to hear I'm not alone.
But with the time, I had this feeling growing inside me, that doing the right/good things without considering the fact whether it is the norm (In other words, being the change I want to see in the world) really doesn't make any good to me. It may not do any good to the world since it can be microscopic to even be noticed in the norm.
I was so disappointed for the good I did, sometimes at extra cost. But I again have faith in my good deeds. Thank you.
Derek, do you really read all these comments? That was a great story by a responsible person, the only chance you took was finding someone before you told your boss you were quitting. What if your boss had someone else in mind? Would you have felt differently about training a complete stranger the boss had chosen who maybe did not have the same aptitude, temperament or skill you had? Anyway kudos for insight into the mind (and heart) of a successful entrepreneur.
I have done that in the past with jobs that I liked. I always believed my motivation was that of Catholic guilt for causing a "problem" instead of hoping that a friend was as happy as I was in that position.
One thing I did learn after having my own successful (small) business for a number of years was that I am a damn good employee! Anyone, including myself, is lucky to have me on board!
This reminds me of two things. One of them is a bumper sticker: "Practice random kindness and senseless acts of beauty".
The other is a poem credited to mother Theresa which appeared on the wall in Mother Teresa's home for children in Calcutta:
People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.
What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, will often be forgotten. Do good anyway.
Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway.
In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.
It's very pleasing to see all the sentiment out there about doing the "right thing" and following the Golden Rule. Too often in our society it seems to be "Do unto others before they do unto you." Thank you for reminding us all that there is a better way.
Derek! I loved your story!!!!
Thanks for a good story on breaking the mold, accidently or not.
It's amazing that you went 10 years in your own company before anyone quit on you. You must be a terrific boss.
"Great Story" Iet me Know if anyone eIse is quitting/training......I need a job.....
Derek, you are a good man. And if you can find a way to link terribletim.com into one of your blogs I can also use the exposure.
If you ever decide to do something on the most fundamental question of life concerning the existence of a supreme diety please reconsider my "No Life after death" as a reference...Thank you my brother....TerribleTim
Naiveté is highly under rated. I, personally, like the dictionary meaning #3 - admirably straightforward and uncomplicated or refreshingly innocent and unaffected.
You are so kind and helpful towards fellow humans. You don't set stumbling blocks anywhere, that's for sure. That's a story to make people smile and send them into the world with stout hearts. It's going on the fridge for my teens.
As I write the bass guitarist Steve and I have been playing with is calling his friend Pauly to cover for him while he vacations in Texas for the month of June. At the end of the day we have to live with ourselves and I don't know about the rest of the world but, my biggest regrets are the one's where I let people down who depended on me.
Hi Derek, Just wanted to let you know that I agree with your standards... and wanted to share a video that I came across the other day. You may have seen it... but maybe a few people here have not. Enjoy, Michael
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gc4HGQHgeFE
I think this is why you have been so successful, that you would go the extra nine yards... the right way to be, however, to think of others and their needs.
Derek, I can't thank you enough for getting me off my arse and down to NYC! Just like you may have been stuck at W/C, I would have been stuck in CT had I not left when I did. So whether it was being naive or considerate on your part, it certainly got my life rolling in the right direction.
-- Derek
So again, thank you
Nikki! Yeah I left out the part where you turned down the job at first.
Great story, Derek! Hope you're having fun on your trip! Best, Frank
You did the right thing Derek and indeed, that should be the normal thing to do.
Fortunately, there seems to be more and more organizations, businesses where one is only allowed to quit after finding a proper replacement - indeed, I have been working at such places.
I love the story. thanks for sharing.
touching....BUT.....what if the management had something else in mind after you left? What if they had someone else in the company who might be perfect to be moved into that position? I guess in a good work environment they would just say so, and that would be that. However, it does set up your (self-trained self-chosen) replacement for possible disappointment if you give the impression the job is "hers/his" without consulting the folks that hired you......
All in all, not so sure I agree with this one...
As a full-time musician, I have made certain to avoid canceling gigs. With that being said, life throws things at us: severe illness, death of a family member, haircuts (just a little joke) etc...
Respecting the booking agents time and energy, and finding a replacement for the rare gigs that I have been unable to perform at, has always been mutually beneficial.
Hi Derek,
That is a good example why most people don't achieve outstanding results in life. Most of us are just not proactive, but only reactive.
What you did Derek was honorable,you were showing your appreciation for the job. But, what surprised me was that the boss hired your trainee.He sure must have trusted you,did he ever ask you,who was this strange person lurking around the office everyday?
Nobody really came in my tape library much. And we did a lot of the training after-hours, I think. -- Derek
Thanks for sharing your story Derek! You are a wise soul.
D,
so is this why international travel is so powerful?
Seems like anomie is generated by placing yourself in a new context, thus chance to fundamentally change?
I was a depressed kid, and some of my friends killed themselves. I decided if it ever got that bad I'd hop a train and disappear into a new life.
Thanks for sharing that story. There alot to learn when owning your own personal business and how to run it. Looking how to conduct your company in the right way is the key to success. I admire people like you leaving a big company and starting your own company from the gound up. And be successful. Your words of wisdom carries me to be like that. Thanks for people like you that give the inspiration that we need in life. Take Care ....
That's such a cool story. My first (several) jobs I hated and was almost happy when they fired me. Boy, I was a schmuck back then.
Wow Derek:
At first I thought that mermaid was Nikki! Who wouldn't want that kind of replacement?
You are a very empathetic person and I admire that quality. We need more people like you in the world & especially in the music industry.
PS I am still moving to Kazakhstan very soon!
Part of your boss's acceptance of what you did was greatly helped by your sincere belief that what you were doing was what was expected. The whole situation was clothed in those not so subtle but invisible vibrations. It probably would not have worked so well if you knew you were going against the "norm".
Good Stuff Maynard! Did you have a lot of money saved before you quit? Did you have other options lined up? College grad at 20, was it a JC?
This explains alot - you're the best!
We put up sayings on the refrigerator in my family. Monday morning I put up: When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us...Helen Keller. I think this story is as much about you as it is about naivete. When the call comes you are willing to walk in that open door. Can't wait to see what you do with the rest of your life...Jack Walker
Hi Derek,
Good work on hiring your replacement. That is the honorable thing to do! I am thinking about quitting the music industry. I will replace my job as a music teacher, writer, and producer with another job.
I have a plan for ending starvation and malnutrition throughout earth within five years. Currently 24,000 children die per day and ONE BILLION human beings are acutely malnourished. Ending starvation is a cause for all causes. Everyone on planet earth benefits. It really gets better for everyone and quite significantly. Population growth stabilizes, genocidal weapons go by the wayside. AIDS, malaria, cancers easily solved, the human species can establish colonies on other planets... I am seeking $500,000 to put my plan in action.
It is very important to acquire the $500,000. People reading this should assist me. People can assist me through my website http://www.thecount.org
Also my telephone number is (619) 437-1553. Thank you Derek for posting this.
Sincerely,
Steve Bruce
Bravo Derek,
What a qualitative approach to leaving a company. The world needs more actions like this. Thanks for the teaching. May this idea not only spread; but inspire similar thoughts and actions.
I dreamed of having a publishing deal with Warner Chappell and when I came to LA from UK I was so disillusioned with Hollywood and the people that were in and of it. I didn't know how to play the game. So, I found myself drawn to helping the homeless in Santa Monica and one day decided to help an individual by finding him a small apartment. The day I chose to tell him he was singing the hook of a song on a bench in the cold. I co-wrote verses and the bridge. A cappella. I was in my interview with Warner/Chappell a few weeks later and they accidentally hit Pno 6 on my DAT (instead of the Boys II Men song I wanted to present). They loved my homeless song and secretaries were tearing up and handing out Kleenex. They cut me $35,000 check right there and then! I became an in-house writer -a very curious way of climbing the Hollywood ladder - because I followed my heart in innocence and complete naivety Derek!!
If you love your job, I can see what you are saying. But far too many people hate their job or their life-force sucking boss, so they have no incentive to do the right thing when they leave. It's too bad people don't find jobs they really love or be self-employed until they do. Self employment isn't as hard as people think, it is just scary to be your own boss. Often it is just the fear of not knowing where to start - http://amzn.to/anz8Rw
Oh, and I shared the publishing with the homeless man and got him an ASCAP membership!!
I agree with you! We have to look at each moment and make our way if we want to change the world.
Not doing what everyone else does is scary sometimes, in your case, you just did it because it made sense.
I got divorced once and said, "no" to alimony, Why should my spouse who did not want a divorce have to pay me support? I got "contempt of court" and the judge fined me!
Me at 24 said, go ahead, I don't care, it isn't right! It was awesome!
anomie--result--"fatalistic suicide arises when a person is too rule-governed, when there is … no free horizon of expectation."--per your Wiki link.
Every business (both blue and white collar) that I have worked for since I was 16 (now 59) suffered from too many rules...if an employee did something the owners did not like, instead of confronting the one person responsible they would make a new set of rules to "punish" everyone equally. I don't ever remember anyone being rewarded for anything...especially for thinking outside the box.
Just thought another perspective might be in order.
de
Usually the employer hires someone and asks you to train them, when you are finished, you get fired.
Playing Devil's advocate.
Derek, Nice gesture, especially since the employer treated you well and you had an excellent candidate.
However, there is a counterpoint to an employee giving notice. When is the last time that you worked for an employer who fired you and had a replacement job waiting?
Loyalty is a two way street .. sometimes.
It's not what you get, it's what you give. What are you going to give, how are you going to live. This life is all about what you give and how you live.
That's what I say anyway. I learned this from my Dad who turned 80 years old this year.
"Positive Anomie"! That is really quite excellent. I have learned something valuable today.
It has never occurred to me that following the norm is necessary. In fact, it generally brings confusion and internal conflict when I do.
It's incredible what happens when one is responsible for him/herself and has the highest good for all of life guiding his/her actions and thoughts. Many cannot even recognize how all things are connected, but for those that do, and those that hold these truths, their experience on this earth is quite simply -something more- than those who do not.
I love hearing stories about your early days. I'm sure good karma has made it back to you for finding your replacement.
... there's not enough money in the world to get me to lay in a scratchy patch of seaweed wearing nothing but a rubber fish bum and a smile.
Its funny that you mentioned leaving a job for your growth. Now a days for lower level employees, jobs do not come a dime a dozen like back in the late 80's and early 90,s. Now these companies want you to perform multiple positions and dare you to complain. Unfortunately they are not paying sufficent wages to match their demands. If I am going to leave a job, I will always try to stay in good standings with the employer, but by know means am I going to do a job meant for someone that is getting paid to do it. You were in a library, and not a corporate setting, where they make all the decisions and does all the hiring. Cudo's to you for caring about the place enough to go the extra mile, but the question is, would they have done the same for you?
Funny what someone said about an employer finding someone they were going to let go new employment before sending them to the unemployment line. After having been laid off 4 times over the course of the last two decades...I can say without hesitation that I would NEVER even consider wasting my time looking for any replacement for a company (Corp) who only considers it's employees as "resources" rather than 'people'. SCREW CORPORATE AMERICA! (Did that sound bitter? ha-ha)
Derek: You are leaving a wonderful mark in this world. We nnever know when our time will be up so choosing to do the right thing from moment to moment attaches threads of our life in the proper fashion. You have been an inspiration for me for some time now. The wonderful ripples that you started at cdbaby will live forever.
I think was I also admired was your willignness to take that leap into the unknown. I always question myself and wave between that safe place in life and the unknown where true Artists make their mark. Doing the right thing when we are weakened for example is even more difficult. When you're starving and have no money and are trying to make a go of it things seems very dark. being able to remain positive in those situations is a true test of character.
Perhaps if we all took a minute or two to think of each other a little more than just ourselves the entire world would start to change.
Recently I thought we were getting airplay for two songs we fed to radio when in fact my own naivety lead me to discover it was the songs we recorded to honour David Bowie, song for David Bowie, Sailor's song, and riding on the wings of forever at www.cdbaby.com/all/buddhaboy .As silly as I am I was going around telling people our new feeds to radio were already getting airplay because I wanted those messages to get out so badly, We all Know and natural magic at www.cdbaby.com/cd/openeyeuniverseu1 I got that same sort of shock when I found out how silly I had been telling people the wrong information.
Is it us as Artists that perhaps just live in our own world and do what we think is right? Or is it that perhaps we get so consumed with self that we forget that there is another world happening than that of our own?
I'm not sure. I always love hearing from you Derek and honestly no matter what info you've ever sent I just love hearing from you. You make my day and my week etc. It's your wonderful outlook on life and how you position yourself in it that I truly admire. I learn from you. I pray some day I'll be as awake as you are. Sometimes I think I am asleep at the wheel. You remind me to pinch myself and make sure I'm alert to what is going on around me so that I might be more considerate of others.
I always write too much info too. Spent too many years as a Broadcaster answering my own questions! Ha!
I'll certainly remember your story should I ever get a day job and need to quit.
Recently my own Visual Art was accepted at the Agora gallery in New York. You've offered me an insight and concept for an entire series of paintings. I just wonder if I owe you commission on them now! You certainly deserve it.
Kindest Regards Always!
John David Hart
front man: Open Eye Universe
music being derek
when i worked for the morning call (tribune paper) i resigned when they didn't credit me with breaking a front page story. and they fired almost everyone in circulation/phone bank and replaced them with workers in the phillipines---they wanted the circulation manager to go & train them & her replacement. she quit immediately.
on the other hand, i worked for a family whose father i took care of for over two years, when he passed away, the family was generous and one of his sons set me up with my own biz.
two sides of the coin, hey!
Nice post, indicates you have a sense of service to others rather than only of service to self.
I never had a day job, music has been kind to me but danged if I know how to train a replacement.
Love,B
Who's the fish?
Daryl Hannah in Splash. A good naïve character. -- Derek
its touching..
Did you train your replacement at CD Baby? That must have been emotionally a hard one.
Heheheh... GREAT question! I didn't even think about that. In CD Baby's case, I made it a system that didn't need me at all, even while I was still there. So when I left, nobody even noticed. -- Derek
Derek--love the way you think.
When I was getting ready to have my first son-the week before the delivery date--I wrote down all my husband's favorite dish recipes, put new plastic covers on them, alphabetized them and put them in a little wooden box.
I handed it to my husband when I went into labor and told him it was a gift for his second wife in case I died in childbirth. He didn't cook at the time, and Tallahassee was kind of a medical backwater then--and I had negative blood and the baby positive and they didn't catch that ahead of time--so thought he would be real pleased that if anything happened--he could still have his favorite meals.
Boy--he sure didn't see it that way--he was kind of ticked off that I was willing to turn him over to a new wife if I died.
Excellent. When I know what I am supposed to do, I inevitably drop into the "should" mental space. By being naive, and just jumping in - I am more authentic and spontaneous. Things also seem to get done from that point of view...
Respect is lacking in today's business. It's all about "me" now a days. You showed great respect for a boss who showed you respect and that's a good thing.
Naivety is how i met Bob dylan and why he asked me to sing with him..
Hello Derek, I really enjoyed this article as I do all of them. I think its great that you so freely share your experience and insights with us. May God continue to bless you and hold you in the palm of His hand as you follow "your" dreams.
I would not worry about being naive. The reason I would not have trained a replacement is because, in most of the jobs I have had, the boss did not deserve that kind of help, and because I would not want to be that replacement. There were a few cases where I had to train other people on how to redesign some things that didn't work. This should not have been necessary because they had engineering degrees and I didn't. I guess they partied their way through school, for all I know.
I don't think training your own replacement is naive if you need to quit a job where you like your boss. I would have probably done the same under those conditions. Derek, if everyone cared for other people as much as you do, this world would be almost like Heaven.
♫ Rather ♪ Peculiar ♫
One big anomaly ,♫of non-conformity
♫ ♪ ♫
I love this story Derek. Not the part about training your replacement (which was very nice of you), but understanding that when you have a job you love it's nearly impossible to quit. I went in for a ½ day temp assignment at Playboy Entertainment after coming off a tour with Ray Charles, and when I looked up 5 years had passed! I wasn't sure what I was going to do (especially since it was the best job I ever had), but I knew I had to quit. Not two days after I gave notice, I got a call from a booking agent who wanted to know if I would go to Japan, and I spent the next 5 wonderful, fabulous years singing over there! But I had to close the one door for the other to open...
Derek, thanks for sharing these great stories of Integrity.
That reminds me, I Interned at Warner Chappell Music back in the day at the Sunset Location and Jeff used to mention you because, I had just started my Independent label "Scar Baby Records" and CD Baby was your New thing at the time. He had a lot of good things to say about you.
BTW way, I didn't think of finding a replacement. That was over my head back then. Lol... God's Speed!
simply said. Derek, you have the 'Aloha Spirit'.
come spend some time in Hawaii and I'll show you some 'real' spirits...we can start right at the volcano and work our way to ancestral locations and meet the real 'Kahunas'... let me know.
Braddah Don
Derek, maaaan, you live in a rose-tinted world! Simple fact is that most people hate their jobs and couldn't give a damn what happens after they leave. Mostly because most bosses are total dickheads. OK, so you were a good boss. But the world doesn't change because of that.
Hi Derek,
There were sooooo many responses to this post that I didn't have time to read them all. I have often found replacements for myself when I was ready to move on. I do something kind of unusual, so I can appreciate the poster's comment about "what do you do if there is no replacement?", and also I am wondering whether you paid the person you trained, during the training period, or if you found someone who was willing to learn for free.
I offered to do this once and my boss looked at me like i was crazy. I offered again and he flately refused saying he wanted to know who and what(kind of person)was coming into his company...needless to say we never got along well and i went back to performing stand-up.
Innocence has never been known to draw suspicion.
But when a man leaves his fish tank and goes looking for mermaids, it's sure to raise an eyebrow of suspicion!
Derek...the beauty of it all is that you were naive yet oh so wise at the same time! Where did you come from again
? I want to do a sabatical in your heart, it is the biggest I've ever seen 
!
Warner/Chappell Music, must have been a very special place to work. I would not have been given the authority to hire my replacement.
Guy
Great post! Creating change works similar where the established norms are thought to be the only way. Often you have to bring in a new leader/people with fresh ideas and perspectives to create the nessary change.
Derek, thanks for the great story.
That's why I sometimes feel that NOT being able to site read music actually helps me compose what I (want to) hear!
Perhaps that is why the cream will seperate from the rest of the milk and rise to the top.
Always enjoy learning about how you think. And I always appreciate that you share this with us!
Solitoode
It's like going to the bathroom.
You must move on or sit in your own results.
I love this one!!! I am Like This...
Now... I have a job, aside from the comfort... I fear the change... And I am a little too loyal, I think, as well... Last off a sinking ship and all... But I understand. I worked for a company that would not let you work out a two week notice, when you quit, they paid you for it and wished you well, and sent you home... freaked me out...
More people should be as thoughtful and considerate. But in the real world, considerate people are rated as being niave. But it's all in good karma! You were smart enough to know how cozy you can get and be stuck forever. Sometimes change is the best bet. Risks are a given. Faith is tested. The struggle? to make it at what you love to do best! Great story!
I like this idea alot. But it seems slightly dangerous legally, and potentially presumptive of power that wasn't yours.
Specifically...
1. how do you get a non-employee the necessary permissions to have access to your "level of clearance" while they are being trained.
2. how do you train said replacement without a decrease in your productivity. Is this a waste of company resources?
3. what if the company didn't want to replace you, but just hadn't figured out a way to eliminate the position?
4. what if the company for whatever reason doesn't want the candidate you've deemed perfect for the job. Isn't it their prerogative to make that call?
I'd like to suggest that the notion of finding your replacement is noble and worth pursuing, but still needs to submit to the parameters of the authority for whom you've agreed to work.
Or just have that replacement know that it all my fall to pieces and that week of training may be for nothing, and you may get fired with a reprimand instead of leaving as a well recommended past employee.
I thought my husband was the only person to ever find a replacement for himself...So,,,,now I'll quit saying "no one ever does that"! He is a very loyal person.
Derek,
You never ceased to amaze me! The effect you have had on many people is pure gold. In many ways you are ‘selfless'. This is another one of your moving stories! We can learn so much from you. Thanks for sharing. Have a GREAT Summer!!!!!!!
Wow! If everyone took this kind of responsibility, the whole world would be a completely different place! Thank you for sharing this story.
I used to think I was naive, but I guess I just didn't know any better.
I adore this! Thank you for being timely(once again)in your stories. Good to hear from you again.
Damn... this is so on target... following "tradition" lands you exactly where all of the other "tradition" followers go... if the thought comes to you to help someone else out... do it... not to set yourself apart... just do it because you have the idea and it will help someone else. The rewards are merely a by-product of your passion; not the reason for your passion.
As they say here in Derry. You're some pup... A touch of class...
Дерек, ты лох=)
I would say that it's a very natural human thing to want to leave something you care about as you found it - or better,(it's just weird an wrong that we live in a world where that could be considered naive)
Obviously i don't know cos i'm not you Derek, but maybe it was less to do with naivety and more to do with a very self determined young man's desire to be complete with himself, and honourable to the people around him who'd treated him well.
Derek,
My mother taught me to always leave the place, the job, the relationship better than when I found it. I've never left an apartment without cleaning every inch, or painting over the purple accent wall. I've never left a job without creating a binder with pertinent information, summarizing what I've accomplished, itemizing what needs to be done, who to contact and providing contact information. Those are values that I internalized from my parents.
I've never waited to be told what I need to do. I've always looked around to see what needs to be done, and how I can add value to whatever situation. The greatest reward I've received is the deep satisfaction that I've performed to my highest expectation.
Sounds like our parents modeled similar values to us.
P.S. I Love Daryl Hannah's outfit. Know where I can find one like it?
no comment !
Gush! I wish you still have that culture and that it becomes a world standard.That employee just made you learn a bad worldly culture.Selfish generation that says-it's your business!
When I hire someone to play with me, it's because of what they bring to my music. If they can't make the gig, I want to hire the replacement. However, if I'm busy, I appreciate them offering to get a replacement.
Fantastic, Derek!
Similar experience, but with a twist...
My first real boss and mentor, John Williams, taught me on the first day that my job was to work myself out a job; and one essential component of that was to train my replacement.
Best of Success!
S.
Derek: Always enjoy your insight. Like to think I have a lot as well. After years of work and two degrees, having problems getting my music out there. I keep trying and looking for answers. Thanks for reading.
I need a job.
^_^;
But yeah, you were really nice to have taken the initiative to train your replacement. Your story got suspenseful for me when you said she could start at your salary, ha! Usually people start in at a base salary + experience pay, but yeah... good show, Derek.
What a contrast to the world in which we live. I have kept a naive trust that most people want to do the right thing as well, which has caused people to criticize me at times.
This reminds me though, of a Scripture verse in Matthew 7:12:
"So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets."
Interesting how it says "in everything"...not just what benefits ourselves.
So, if we follow this Golden Rule, as schools once dared to teach, in our daily living we meet the standards set for us in the Law of the Old Testament, and the grace of the New Testament. It's easier than most people think to live by the Bible...it really is that simple...no need to convolute the facts.
Perhaps your "naive" thinking is exactly why you succeeded, Derek!
Derek, I resonate to your message and have usually taken it upon myself to train my replacements. I believe in giving 100% and maybe even making a workplace better for having been there.
By the way, this social and moral conscience you speak of is linked to the prefrontal cortex. Apparently, if this area of the brain is damaged, this quality is absent.
Good to hear from you, D. Thank you for sharing. J
Got to give it to you Derek, training your replacement.
Now that's a way to quit.
I dare anybody to be mad at you.
wow... i never regret clicking on a link you send... always one of the bright moments of my day / week / month / year / life!
you are amazing
t
its like how parents are supposed to train their kids so the circle remains unbroken. its great if this kind of love be demonstrated in places where it isn't expected. such an attitude is cool. its like life is supposed to be. we are one family.
You're ethical. I am too. It's strange how unethical the world can be. It's our job as Spirit Warriors though to share the choice. The choice is simple.
Great post! I think it sheds light on something that occurs often in the workplace today. I'm guessing that when you quit your job, you trained your replacement because you genuninely wanted the office to continue operating smoothly after you left. I'd argue that these days, when someone quits their job, they're less concerned with how the office will manage after they're gone. If only there were a way to find out if newly-hired employees have really bought into the mission of the organization or if they just want a pay check.
We have ah whole load of respect for you in london Derek especially at angrybabyrecordz bruv. stay real your heavy KID! My online store opens soon and your the reason for that i thank you my man PEACE n LOVE bro........
I am quite naive in some aspects of the passion project I am working on right now. And there are things I am hoping not to learn along the way that might discourage the creative process.
Hi Derek-
What an exceptionally classy way of handling things. What a much nicer and easier way of doing things it would be if BOTH employer and employee had the same attitudes...I'm dreaming of course, unfortunately it'll probably never happen (as the norm) in this world...
Congrats to you and your wife on being newlyweds! I'll bet you took her on a "World Class" honeymoon!
Very Best Regards,
George
A couple things came to mind while I was reading; I was thinking you promised this person a job without the authority to hire them. What if the boss wanted to hire someone else or had to advertise the job like some places are obligated to do, to make the process transparent. I'm glad it worked out. Would you have paid the trainee a weeks wages if the job was not made available? I have a feeling you would've.
'Without deviation from the norm, progress is no possible.' Frank Zappa
'The ordinary gives the world its constancy, the extraordinary its value.' Oscar Wilde
Regards, have a good time,
Miri
you are one of a kind, Derek
My goodness I needed that laugh today! Thanks Derek!!
I did the same thing. Seemed logical. But businesses I found, don't always exist to be succesful. And the owner thought I was usurping his perogative in more (paranoid) ways than I thought possible. Lord be was angry. Wound up trying to choke out against a wall.
Winston Churchill said success was trying and failing and not losing your enthusiasm.
What seems like common sense doesn't always work. Who cares? Living well is really all that matters.
Well, and what goes around comes around. The world is roundish, and space is curved.
Paul
Paul
What a great story, and it proves such a great point! I often wonder why "norms" aren't questioned more, especially when many of them no longer work or even apply … the age-old definition of insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results!
Derek, your way of thinking outside the box and taking responsibility for your own actions is IMO, a part of what makes you a successful person and entrepreneur. Your story about getting the gig with Ryuichi Sakamoto is another example of the same thinking. There is nothing naive about thinking like that if you ask me. IMO it is simply high standards of ethic. I am inspired by hearing your stories, to keep my own standards up! Thanks for your insights as always.
Derek, your thinking is correct: it really is normal and ethically the first to provide a replacement for yourself and leave. We seem to be similar... Thanks for your inspirational posts,
S.
i think what you did was called being responsible and it is no wonder that you had a successful business. thanks derek
Derek, I want to thank you for the helpful hints you've given out over the years. I really appreciate it, and a couple have been very helpful. always like hearing from you.
Thanks Derek. What I got from this post was to not be limited by the "norm." As an independent artist, it's imperative to be creative and go beyond the normal processes in order to forge a niche in the ever-changing business of music.
Glo.
Derek - when i saw that title i was worried. i just quit my dayjob so i could focus on music fulltime, touring my first album, and not get stuck doing something merely to pay the bills. i thought your article was going to tell me i was naive and should have stuck it out to get by. I'm glad thats not what it is about! phew. Instead, here you are running your own company and still heavily involved in music. They didnt ask me to, but i did offer to train the next music teacher (thats what i did), and will still make myself available if they need help - because i did like the job and the kids i worked with, and i care that the school continues to be a success. i guess thats what makes a difference - you should care about what you do, and do it well - despite your motivations for doing it.
cheers. here's to quitting!
Derek Sivers,
periodically I get these emails from you and had never been sure where or how I met you...Or if I had even met you (this IS 2010, afterall)..I rarely open the emails (my bad)and when I did open one or two, I think I would give it, like, a 15 second view. BUT NOW I am on this new thing in life, where I dont want to be or live like I was with my old ways. I want to be open, considerate and eager to learn from life..I just read your article about quitting your job and finding and training your replacement 10 years ago.."There's a benefit to being naïve to the norms of the world.
Deciding from scratch what seems like the right thing to do, instead of just doing what others do." This will some up my next journey...Truly...Thanks Derek
How responsible...Congratulations, I am happy to see you are doing well! Best,
Bobby