To Part or Not to Part?

Recently, as some of you know, I've resigned from my lecturing job at my university. It wasn't an easy decision but there're a few reasons behind the resignation. First, I started another clothing line and I need more time to run the business if I were to make it happen (Yes, we've shut down Testify Wear because my partners and I have different visions and goals for life and the company). Secondly, my three year bond with the university was finally over and I no longer owe them anything. Thirdly, I wanted a job where I can really just focus on teaching and improving myself as a Graphic Designer (with that job, I'm always assigned with tasks that are non-related to my field of work and I barely have time to explore and experiment due to the long working hours). And because of this, I was angry and bitter. I'm a very progressive person and I get upset when my job hinders me from doing what it takes to be a better designer.

Well, I thought that was finally the end of that chapter of my life and I can say adios to my university... and then came the phone call (these are the moments where Lady Gaga's song hits you with "Stop calling, stop calling, I don't want to think anymore")

Apparently, my boss called and he wanted to talk to me before I go. Very reluctantly, I went to his office. I was set to leave no matter what he said (or at least that's what I thought). Sat down in his office and he started asking the usual questions like, "Why are you leaving?" and "Anything wrong with the faculty?" or "Am I going to another university?" And then he started sharing some sort of heart to heart talk. I've never heard him talk like that since he's always been critical and sarcastic from the first day I met him.

"Well, I was like you too. A few months ago, I wanted to quit too. I was fed up. But then I'd be a hypocrite if I did that because I remember challenging you guys to not quit when there's difficulty at work. So I stayed on instead. What kind of example would I be, if I left?," he said almost in a humbling manner.

"Oh man, why can't you just scold me or something so I can leave completely?!" I screamed in my mind. For your information, my boss is a very proud and confident man and I've never heard him speak in a manner as such. He usually scoffs and hurls insults in a jokingly manner. But in moments like these, such prudent words and humility found its way to soften even the most hardened and resentful of hearts.

He asked me to consider a part time position instead. Make it a slow transition so that if anything goes wrong with the company, at least I still have a backup plan, he suggested.

I really don't think I could've left after that conscience-violating conversation.

Well, as of today, I am still working for my university as a part time lecturer. This seems like the best for both worlds. I get what I want (a stable income, ample time to prepare for my company, to teach and give back to society) and they get what they want (a good lecturer, according to their evaluation anyway, to teach the students).

Lesson learnt : People do notice if you've got substance. Make sure you are the real deal and don't ever, ever stop desiring to progress. And make sure you switch off your phone after resigning from your job (or switch to a new number, whichever works best).

"Show me someone who does a good job, and I will show you someone who is better than most and worthy of the company of kings." Proverbs 22:29