Article by: Gloria Lorenz, STEM Connect Student Specialist Sr.

You’ve probably seen those pictures…Break Glass in Case of Emergency, and the item behind the glass is something hilarious like a candy bar. Truly life-saving, even if you now have to sweep up the broken shards. 

I don’t have one of these glass cases in my work area, but in situations where it feels like everything is falling apart, we often just wish we could find something that will make everything right again. 

Something, or someone? When failure feels imminent, the best thing I’ve found is to seek the support of someone who can help. 

It seems obvious, but how often do we try to do everything ourselves? How often do we keep fears inside, shouldering all of the burdens, when there is someone close by ready to step in to assist?

You may be in a situation where it seems like you can fix everything yourself, but then it turns out you’ve created a domino effect of consequences that you now have to take care of. Before this happens, think about the people in your life who are there to support you, a supervisor, a peer, or someone who isn’t even in your department. Others bring so many unique experiences and perspectives, it is likely they will know how to guide you in turning a tough situation into a moment of victory. Sometimes it just takes a listening ear or an encouraging word to let you know that all is not lost. Whether in the classroom or in your office, when it seems like things are going wrong, just remember that you are not alone in your journey. There is someone looking out for you, someone who can save the day. 

Instead of breaking the glass case, turn to others for guidance. There will be less of a mess to clean up.