<center>![Blueprint 1000x1000.png](https://files.peakd.com/file/peakd-hive/thejedo/AKLuRbFgRacrFFZn9vczPLYn2eq349QGpQNj8wxZYZvPHPeKnPwegazqYwh2axZ.png)</center>



___


*"Did you get the construction plans I need printed out?"* The Vice President of the company asked. 

*"Ahhhh, shoot!"* I nervously replied. *"I'll go order those blueprints right now."*

*"No, no, I'll order them myself."* 

___

This was one of the first instructions given to me by my new boss. At that time, I had just been with the company for six months. 

He wasn't my first boss/manager at this company, though. Before him, I was in a different department. I had a different manager.

A few months after me hiring in, this VP took a liking to my work. Considering he was one of the interviewers available when I was still applying for a job, he already knew about the things I could do. 

He eventually asked if I was interested in transferring to his department. It was not just a lateral move. It was a promotion. 

*Six months in and I'm already being promoted?* I couldn't believe it. 

I took the offer with almost zero hesitation. The only minor thought that bugged me was that I was already leaving my team that I was just starting to get to know. 

*"I'm transferring to a sister department within the **same** company. I won't miss much!"*

I told myself this before accepting the new title.

___

*"No, please let me call the printing company. I'll even pick up the documents myself!"*

*"No, no, no. It's okay. Just forget it."*

I knew I messed up. He did not sound upset but I was frustrated with myself. 

*How can I forget such a simple task?*

This was not the way to make a first impression on your new manager.

I apologized and promised myself that the next time he needs something, I will get it done right away, else I will forget about it again.

I can't afford to make the same mistake again.

___

Every time we would go on meetings, whether internally or with a client, I would just sit there and listen.

I like observing. This is how I learn.

Not only do I try to further understand the topics of discussion, I was also paying attention to manners of speaking and body language.

*"These are the things you should be writing down. Next time, bring a pen and paper with you."*

---

I have been too reliant on my memory that it didn't even occur to me that I need to write down notes during meetings.

*How could I forget that I can sometimes be forgetful??*

Even though it was a friendly, mentor-mentee advice, I have to admit it stung a little. 

I knew I needed to change. I knew I needed to be better.

___

Ever since that incident, I made sure I always brought a notebook with me. Whether it be a big meeting or a minor one, I had a pen and paper ready for my handwritten notes.

Sometimes I'd bring my laptop too depending on the circumstance.

I have gotten better at remembering things like other requirements and deadlines just because of having developed the habit of jotting down notes.

---

Now, I am so used to writing everything down. Whether it's an important item or just random words that people say to break the ice during meetings.

*Better have it and not need it rather than need it and not have it.*

Nowadays, I don't get asked to order printouts anymore but in the random event that I need to, rest assured that it will get done.

*But first, let me write that down so I don't forget.*

___

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