I nearly got out of bed to buy a T shirt, but there were too many colour choices which made me feel a little anxious, then my gut pain reminded me I'd forgotten to eat for three days, so I had some dry porridge oats and went back to sleep. Maybe next time, eh.
I bought this T-shirt because I’m exhausted by being told to ‘engage’. Engage with what is never specified, only that it should be done enthusiastically and in a group. Most of this engagement seems to consist of people talking about work rather than doing it.
I wore it into the office on a day when we were meant to be sharing thoughts. This involved sitting in a circle while several people used the word “energy” in ways that suggested it was transferable by conversation alone. One of them asked what the t-shirt meant. I said it meant I was dressed. He laughed and said no, what does it really mean. I said it means I don’t want to be part of this.
Since then, I’ve been included less. This has been presented as a concern. I see it as an improvement. I’m no longer asked for opinions I didn’t offer. I’m allowed to get on with my job, which I do quietly and without needing validation.
The tee is well fitted and doesn’t require ironing. I’ve started wearing it more often because it discourages follow-up questions. People seem to sense there’s no upside to involving me
I wore this t-shirt to a job interview by mistake, having forgotten to change after walking the dog. The interviewer seemed to double-take, then asked if I felt aligned with their company values. I said probably not.
We ended the interview early. I was home by 10.30am. #WinningAtLife
