His dad's warnings went unheeded. His mum's cautionary tale went unnoticed. His classmate's experience failed to curb his desire. It was only the overwhelming feeling of death during his first hangover that finally Burtram realised alcohol wasn't for him. "The burned hand teaches best. After that advice about fire goes to the heart" JRR Tolkien

I don't feel so good. But I can't take a sick day.Why?Because I have to get on top of things.Why?Because only then will I feel in control.This is the monkey holding onto the treasure that can't fit through the hole. As long as he holds onto the gold he is trapped. It hasn't occurred to … Continue reading Can’t be sick →

It was a dark day for productivity when the intern figured out if you don't ask for work you'll be left alone. It was a lesson that immediately created a fork in the road for the rest of the internship. Say nothing and coast to an easy pay day or put your hand up for … Continue reading Not asking for more work →

It was their second date, she was in the middle of telling a story when he cut across her with:'So, are you seeing anyone else?'It's blunt, obvious and flattering.If the date was going horribly he wouldn't be asking. He'd be thinking of ways to get out of there.The question's sub text says I want you … Continue reading Are you seeing anyone else? →

Can I have a sweet?No!The two year old then hangs their head in disappointment.What about an apple?Chin still firmly on the chest, not budging.Yes they're trying to manipulate you but it's so delightfully obvious and coming from an innocent source that we call it cute.The thing is, I reckon we're all still like that two … Continue reading Subtle manipulations →

I posit that movies are the favourite art forms of overthinkers.Why?Because it's immersive.Standing in front of a painting doesn't make the noise in your head shut up like a rich plot demanding high concentration levels.Outdoor art is susceptible to outdoor conditions dominating the experience. Wet socks in a muddy field on a freezing evening makes … Continue reading Overthinking cinema →

I can understand how workaholics become so.We grew up being good kids for teachers and parents, doing what they said and what they liked.Then more time passed and we replaced the parent or teacher with a boss and knew instinctively to avoid trouble we had to do what they liked.Unfortunately chasing approval has overdosing capabilities … Continue reading The birth of a workaholic →

99% of work drama is making mountains out of molehills. Then again, that could be said for all drama. But it seems to be particularly relevant for workplaces. It's like when you're getting paid to be there your scandal sensors heighten. Perhaps overreacting to an email phrasing is a way to avoid work? Maybe complaining … Continue reading Work drama →

I think the truth is you don't need 3 years experience to do the job. I think you could train someone how to use Facebook Ads in a week. The principles are easy to learn and even if you don't have the time to train them yourself there are millions of articles online to help. … Continue reading 3 year barrier →

'Hey, keep this a secret but Grandad just told me he's going to give me his Faberge egg.' 'What?!? He told me I was getting it, not an hour ago.' And just like that your word is shot. It's the boy who cried wolf. It's taking everything you say with a vat of salt. We'll … Continue reading Faberge egg promises →