For the first time since I started my job back in 1995, I did not get a year-end raise. It wasn’t my fault. The company froze salaries and also slashed Christmas bonuses (ouch!). They announced these unfortunate things long before annual reviews began, and since then, I’ve had to grit my teeth every time the media gush over how great the economy is and how wages are up, etc. Clearly the media aren’t painting an accurate picture. The economy is uncertain, and while wages may be up for some, they’re not up for all, and may even be down for some.
My review went well, though. My boss and I had a nice chitchat. She values my work, and that means a lot to me. This upcoming year will present some new challenges, including three issues that aren’t what I’m used to, but I’m not worried. With nearly 30 years of this type of work under my belt, I’m sure I can handle whatever they throw at me.
What’s harder to face is the fact that this job–this way of life–is disappearing. Not all at once, but it’s happening. I’d be a fool to think otherwise. I just need this job to last another six years or so. Let me get my kids through high school, that’s all I ask. Everything else can be worried about later.