Bridger Cook

I was fortunate to start working at a young age in a very physical and time demanding job. Every summer after school ended and my friends were out partying enjoying their summer I was working 12-14 hour days 6 days a week, out in the sun in the middle of a field by myself. I was so tired on my day off I spent it sleeping trying to recover from the last week and prepare for the next week. Although at the time it seemed like a punishment more than a privilege, that first job taught me the definition of what hard work and discipline was. I would receive daily tasks and was expected to complete them on my own with no supervision to watch me to make sure i completed said task. I did not go home until the job was done, no matter how tired I was or how long i had been working i had to finish the job. Those things i learned i carry with me today. I show up to work everyday, ready to stay until the job is done. I dont just show up completing the bare minimum and going home. I always push my to go above and beyond any expectations. I do it because of the feeling of self fulfillment of a job well done and the want, to show what i am capable of doing. I also like to lead by example not by title. How can i expect my guys to show up everyday if im calling in sick all the time. How can i ask them to stay extra hours and do extra work if im not willing to do the same. I want to work with them and gain respect and lead based off of that, not becasue im your boss so you have to listen to me. I have found that is the most effective way to lead and also maintain positive relations with co-workers.