NO MORE RED

As everyone is aware, I work for Target. You would think since our required dress is red and khaki, red would be a welcomed word for Target managers. You would be wrong. Two years ago the logistics process at our store was placed on the red focus list. This is a BAD place to be. Being on this list means being micromanaged to the point where you want to scream. It means lots of extra big wig visits with lots of "todo" lists after the caravan leaves. It means lots of hard work, sweat and tears to get off that list. Every decision is followed with, "Are you sure?" When I went to HR and told them I needed to turn my entire staff to get the job done, they reminded me that Target doesn't like to fire people. Fire? Who said anything about firing? I call it a mutually agreed upon pursuing other career options choice. Nearly two years ago I was hired at Target not knowing what I was getting myself into. Two years ago when they blindly asked, "Are you afraid of heights? Can you repeatedly lift over 40lbs? Any issues with ladders?", I innocently replied, "Uh, no." Fast forward to February 7, 2009. I am sitting in my office just about to leave for the day when the store manager comes in. "I don't know if you are ready for this, but we are OFF THE LIST!!!!!!!!!!" We both gave each other a high five, and I left that office feeling so proud. All my hard work, dedication, and planning had paid off. All the decisions I was questioned about were the right ones. I can not take all the credit for this. I have a team in place who work their butts off for me. I have a team of peers who respect me and my decisions (they'll tell you just don't make the Jersey girl mad). I have a store manager who will stand up to the Jersey girl and remind her to have a work/life balance. I also have a family that I adore and have put up with a very tired momma at the end of a day. It would have been so easy to give up. I will admit there were times when I questioned my own decisions and drive. Nobody but me understands what yesterday meant. Here's to no more red:)