Saturday, February 8, 2025

Doctor Love: Disappointed at work

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Dear Doctor Love,
I have been in a job in the tourism industry that I love and value for eight years. Recently, two of my co-workers were promoted to supervisory positions. I was one of the top three candidates but was not selected for either position. The two individuals who were chosen are less qualified, have less experience in the industry, and have less time working for our company. Furthermore, I had been performing the duties of a supervisor while we were waiting for the hiring process to be completed. This situation has diminished my passion for my work. Being asked to teach the new supervisors how to perform their jobs is disheartening. Should I look for another job or stay and hope for the best in three to four years? /s/ Disappointed at work

Dear Disappointed at Work,
First, let’s acknowledge that your frustration is valid—it’s never easy to feel overlooked, especially when you’ve proven your worth. But before packing up and leaving, consider this: Why were you passed over? It may not be about qualifications but office politics, personality fit, or something you haven’t been told. Instead of stewing, have a candid conversation with your boss. Ask what you can improve to secure a future promotion and make it clear you’re invested in growing with the company. If the response feels dismissive or vague, that’s your signal to dust off your résumé. In the meantime, don’t lose your professionalism—teach the new supervisors well, not for them, but to maintain your reputation. Whether you stay or leave, your legacy should be one of competence and integrity. /s/ Dr. Love

Dear Doctor Love,
I’ve been reading about the traffic situation on Ambergris Caye, and it makes me wonder why the community as a whole isn’t taking responsibility. People complain about reckless driving and intoxicated drivers, yet everyone seems to share some blame for the poor driving conditions on the island. It feels like no one wants to enforce traffic laws or intervene with drunk drivers. I’ve visited Secret Beach frequently, at various times of the day, and I’ve never seen a traffic warden there. So, how can we take responsibility and address this problem effectively? /s/ Traffic chaos

Dear Traffic Chaos,
You’ve hit the nail on the head—accountability is the missing ingredient in the island’s traffic mess. Enforcement is only part of the solution; culture and mindset need to shift too. Start by rallying community leaders, businesses, and residents to push for visible traffic wardens in high-traffic areas like Secret Beach. But don’t stop there—make the issue personal. Host public forums or social media campaigns that highlight the consequences of reckless driving, including real stories or statistics. Encourage local bars and establishments to promote safe driving by offering discounts on taxi services or partnering with designated driver programs. And finally, lead by example. If you see a drunk friend getting into a cart, step up. Change starts with one brave voice refusing to look the other way. /s/ Dr. Love

Dear Doctor Love,
My husband was laid off during the slow season and has struggled to find a stable job since then. He has only been working part-time gigs and occasional jobs that come up. He claims to enjoy having more free time, but without a stable income, our finances at home are tight. He insists that as the season picks up, he will receive more job opportunities. However, I keep encouraging him to look for a full-time job instead of focusing solely on part-time work. How can I effectively communicate my concerns to him? /s/ Needs a full time job

Dear Needs a Full-Time Job,
This isn’t just about the bills—it’s about the partnership. Start by showing empathy; your husband’s attachment to his free time might stem from burnout or fear of rejection. But empathy doesn’t mean tiptoeing around the issue. Sit down during a calm moment and frame your concerns in terms of the team: “We’re in this together, and I’m feeling the strain. I need us to find a better balance.” Suggest brainstorming job ideas together, so he feels supported, not nagged. If he’s adamant about waiting for more seasonal work, propose a compromise: part-time now, full-time applications on standby. Ultimately, it’s about nudging, not shoving, and reminding him that stability isn’t just about income—it’s about relieving the stress on both of you. /s/ Dr. Love

Doctor Love is the islands, and possibly the world’s greatest authority on just about everything. The Doctor answers questions concerning any subject except religion or politics. Persons needing additional assistance or counseling should contact Family Services Division at 227-7541. The opinions herein are not necessarily of The San Pedro Sun. Write Doctor Love at PO Box 51, San Pedro Town, Belize, or email: [email protected]

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