I’ve never given this topic much thought as I’ve always been pretty injury free.  However, that changed around the end of June.  I managed to destroy my wrist from slipping on shaving cream in the shower. I’m now bionic with a plate and too many screws in my wrist.  I knew depending on others, especially my husband, would be difficult for this independent gal but I didn’t realize how frustrated I would be at work because of this injury.

– The timing was horrific.  I broke my wrist on the 24th, surgery could only be scheduled for the 7th.  This meant start work, leave work right away, which is not an impressive way to start.  Luckily, my manager was absolutely fantastic and assured me this was not a concern.

– I can’t type.  I am on my computer a ton.  I’m a fast two handed worker but now I dread even responding yes to an email.  I’m slow and awkward!    And my quality is down.  You would think one finger typing would mean no mistakes but my mind is too fast and I’m impatient.

– I’m drugged.  The pain is horrible so meds are required.  Concentrating after popping a pill is challenging to say the least.  I now know what it means to be in a haze at work and I wouldn’t recommend it if your goal is to actually contribute.

– Then because I’m letting this fall for now, I’m stressed.  I know its the right thing to not worry about paying the bills this exact moment but once he work starts piling up, so does my anxiety.  I get things done but my injury is causing problems physically and mentally.

So what does this have to do with this blog?  Aside from just needing to vent, I realize as a leader I have not supported people with injuries enough.   Sure, well being inquiries and initial time off support but that’s the easy part.  Next time, I might have them pair their job just so they don’t have to type.  I might reschedule a big mtg when they can be coherent.  I might have them work from home for a week.

How do you support people with injuries?

 

 

 

 

Tricia Broderick

Tricia Broderick

Tricia Broderick is a leadership and organizational advisor. Her transformational leadership at all levels of an organization, ignites growth of leaders and high performing teams to deliver quality outcomes. Tricia has more than twenty years of experience in the software development industry. She is a highly-rated trainer, coach, facilitator and motivational keynote speaker. Beyond her extensive knowledge and skills, her biggest offering is inspiring people to believe anything is possible.

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