Swamped...

When God rested on the 7th day, he modeled something essential to us. Working 7 days a week[SUnday is not a rest day], even though it may be part time work, but it's been draining me. Feel so swamped with work. Even when I get home, there's invoicing, rolls and timetables, listening to youtube to learn new songs for the vocal students, concert running sheets, etc.

Sub-contracting with 3 different companies has also given me the opportunity to see how good management and vision can make a difference in the workplace. So far, the company which I work for in the North is the best. What makes it good:

• Admin is not done by teachers. We can concentrate on teaching and not trying to fix up appointments and bookings. That is our exact job description and is strictly adhered to.
• We are paid fairly with 50% of the fee rate charged the students
• We have access to facilities like internet, microwaves, water, fridges, printers etc
• We have simple policies to follow. Rock up 15 min before lessons start, use legal music, feedback to the owner all the time, have a simple lesson plan, fill in progress sheets
• The policy of the lesson fee being charged if the school is not informed 24 hours before is upheld.
• Owner is a practising musician and cares about the welfare of the students and teacher alike.He has a vision for a great learning environment.

What makes other working environments not as wonderful:

• Being expected to do loads of admin work at home
• Company does not show much care for the progress and learning of the clients
• Dodgy instruments provided
• Constant barrage of communication via email and phone that is more of a hassle than it is helping. Usually it is to get one to do something extra besides routine work agreed upon.
• Teaching students in groups and being paid as if you were teaching 1
• Being paid late, sometimes by 1-2 weeks

Next term, Saturdays are off. Need the day to do laundry and get some exercise. Need to spend some longer hours with God.

Conclusion:

• There must be vision that is not just stated, but lived out in company/organization/church.
• Genuine care for the welfare and growth of ppl is needed in every organization.
• Do not muzzle the ox....biblical principle. Reward your workers, pay them fairly and on time. In church, pay your pastors and workers well. And give out encouragement and honour wherever it is due to any member who is serving.