I have had a number of interesting experiences during my first week as a part time employee for the project I am working on with a large bank.

I am feeling WAAAAAY out of my comfort zone. This is ironic - don’t you think. Many of us that have our own businesses speak to people in organisations who frequently confess they would like to start their own business, but are afraid of the unknown (aka don’t want to get out of their comfort zone).

In various discussions I have, well not been disparaging, but certainly a little “better/worse” about the life of an independant contractor versus being an employee. I have a new and very healthy respect for people who live, work and thrive in large organisations.

I couldn’t even figure out how to get the hot water tap to work to make myself a cup of tea! There was a safety switch - didn’t have those in my days of working in an organisation!!!!!

It also appears that old habits die hard. It’s been well over 5 years since I worked in a corporate environment as an employee. Back then, I was someone who used to love getting in early before everyone else and having that half hour or so where I could make a cuppa, potter around and ease into my day. The other day I found myself in automatic pilot - intending to be in the office half an hour early to be there before others………I had to catch myself with a very sold “for what purpose”.

As a raving extravert - I also had a belief that busy, noisy and people filled environments suited my working and communication style. Evidently I was wrong about that too. After 5 years of my own (relatively large) space, and the freedom to work when, and with whom I like, it appears my introverted function has been practised well. I couldn’t wait to get back to my space where it was relaxed, I knew how to make a cup of tea, there was room to spread out and I didn’t feel like I had to whisper on the phone.

The upside - I have a new laptop (pc, though *sigh* - not allowed to bring my mac onto their network), they are encouraging me to work from home and have given me remote access - as there really isn’t any space for me, and it’s nice to meet new people and gather new stories.