I realize that my recent posts typically took on more of a business tone than a truly personal one. Because I managed large-scale technology projects in my previous life it was easy to go into “get it done” mode and keep my usual emotional distance from the situation.
I therefore crafted an approach and plan in my head to fight this new legislation:
- Build awareness through every channel possible
- Contact representatives through letters and phone calls and ask others to do the same
- Support your community-at-large with as much information and resources as you can find.
As the deadline approaches, however, I am finding it much harder to look at things so rationally and emotions are creeping in. While I may have been keeping an actor’s “third wall” throughout this process before, it is now time to look you straight in the eyes when we discuss the CPSIA.
And as I decide to take on this new approach, I am reminded once again how insightful Mark Riffey’s blog is because it serves as a constant reminder that business is not just business. Business Is Personal.
I therefore want to let you know that I take it personally when:
- our representatives forget that they are the ones who are supposed to be thinking rationally not emotionally.
- they forget how severely their actions (and in-actions) affect their communities.
- those who are supposed to think deeply about the issues don’t think at all and as a result, I have to close my business.
And finally, I take it personally when instead of support, we get excuses and accusations:
- We didn’t intend this for small businesses
- We didn’t have the budget to advertise
- You’re getting it wrong and misinforming people
- You’re blowing it out of proportion – aka ‘why do women always get so hysterical?’ (Nevermind that there are plenty of men who are just as outraged. More on that later.)
And because I take it so personally I will continue to call. I will continue to write. I will continue to let everyone know that this law needs to be repealed and rewritten.
I will continue to remind you, our representatives, that business is not just business, business is personal.
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Well said, my friend. I’m in publishing, and I echo all your sentiments.
I’ll be praying we get relief, and soon.
I agree! I especially hate all the bad information getting passed around by people who spend 2 seconds looking at the issue and just want to stick their nose into it. If you don’t know of all the sources then SHUT UP~
Ok, that was unprofessional, but I spent two hours today with two different people who even with proof they were spreading rumors wouldn’t stop.
SO FRUSTRATING!
Connie
Congress passes legislation against hair bows! Do they know what they are doing?
Wow, thank you so much. And do keep on taking it personally:)
Mark
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