Ah, waitressing! That unique role where you greet diners with a grin while they unleash a barrage of complaints and demands. I worked as a server throughout college, and while I applied my psychology degree briefly, I would argue that my time as a waitress taught me invaluable lessons about human behavior—lessons that have been instrumental in my journey into motherhood. Here are five ways waitressing has equipped me for parenting.
1. Recognize the Real Culprit
As I stood at my station, I would assess the newly seated customers, preparing myself for their whims. Just as I would start my cheerful greeting, I was often interrupted with a demand for diet coke, leaving no room for pleasantries. It’s the same with my son. The other morning, he sweetly approached me, looking adorable in his oversized onesie. Before I could finish saying “good morning,” he interrupted with a very specific request for his chocolate milk. In both scenarios—rude patrons and demanding children—the rule is the same: don’t take it to heart, maintain your composure, and model the respect you wish to receive. And maybe “forget” that extra chocolate syrup once in a while.
2. Own Your Mistakes
Panic would set in when I realized I had forgotten to place an order for a table that had been waiting far too long. In my frantic rush, I would blame the kitchen, convincing myself it was their fault. But eventually, I learned the importance of accountability. Now, when my kids’ chaos leads to a messy house or a late dinner, I remind myself that I might be the one dropping the ball. At least I always have chips and salsa on hand for a little distraction.
3. Embrace the Mess
In my first week of waitressing, I dropped an entire tray of food and spilled drinks on unsuspecting guests. I even got chili splattered on my face by a gentleman who simply “didn’t like it.” Fast forward to motherhood—when my son was born, I quickly became familiar with the world of reflux and diaper blowouts. Now, as my youngest sits in his high chair gleefully launching spaghetti at my face, I can only chuckle, knowing it could always be worse.
4. Complaints: Part of the Job
From customers unhappy about ice levels in their drinks to those who claim their meals weren’t what they ordered, I quickly learned that complaints are par for the course. With a four-year-old, it’s no different. Whether he thinks his spaghetti is “too stringy” or his chocolate milk isn’t brown enough, I’ve developed a thick skin. I smile, nod, and retreat to a safe distance, all while appreciating the absurdity of the moment.
5. Prioritize the Kids
I used to find it amusing when kids wreaked havoc at a restaurant, pouring sugar packets everywhere. After working in the industry, I understood that putting children first is key to keeping parents happy. Serve the kids first, entertain them, and their parents will be grateful. Now that I have my own two boys—who can be little tornadoes—I see the truth in this. When the kids are content, parents are content.
As I continue to navigate the challenges of parenting, I draw on the skills I honed while waitressing. One day, I’ll guide my children toward their own serving jobs, eagerly awaiting their stories of demanding customers and chaotic shifts. I’ll smile, knowing they are on their way to mastering the art of patience and empathy—two essential qualities for any parent.
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Summary:
Through my experience as a waitress, I learned valuable lessons about patience, accountability, and the importance of putting children first. These lessons have profoundly shaped my approach to motherhood, equipping me to handle the challenges that come with raising kids.
Keyphrase: Lessons from Waitressing for Motherhood
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