Work habits in others that I find...offensive?

That is wonderful to hear, Rose. It is nice to know that some companies still see value in employee welfare.

Sadly this is all very true.

The Ms have been with the firm for less than 4 months, have taken at least one week of vacay and are now putting in their ooo for 2 weeks over the holidays

Nothing wrong with desiring a better work-life balance. Of course, I was born in the eighties and think people who sacrifice themselves for a job, that more often times than not is not meaningful, interesting and only makes a difference to the bank accounts of the guys making the "big bucks" are losers.

Many of you are urban slaves.

I'm no better. I work to get a pay check so I can enjoy life outside the office. Work is a means to an end. The type of work most do in offices is just a necessary evil in a capitalist world. It functions but it does not matter more than that so, why do more than function, pay your time and take the money and run? You won't see me staying overtime and yes, if I can, I absolutely will come in a bit later and leave a bit earlier.

And some would say, you'll never "succeed" like that but, to those I ask, "what is success?" Being the one with the 80 hour work week and bigger pay check? Buying and selling junk to the plastic junkies?

Let it go.

I'm rich. I live in one of the wealthiest countries in the world, have food, clean water, health care, personal freedoms, shelter and many conveniences, why do I need more stuff?

I'll be watching that clock because when I step outside the office, that's the world that matters.

It's not just at work, it permeates all aspects of our society ... People seem to be more selfish and self absorbed these days with little consideration about how their behavior is impacting those around them ...

This doesn't just apply to the younger generation though ... They simply model the behaviors of the adults and leaders around them ...

So perhaps it's ourselves and the messages we're sending that we need to be offended at instead ...

Perhaps you have a point. Perhaps the work ethic and manners that my father taught me no longer applies. Perhaps, I am living in a world where self centered, self absorbed, put in your time and take advantage with no appreciation or understanding, the apathy and laziness, is how it is these days.

The "I have no responsibility to the team" is a standard notion. The I have no responsibility to anyone but myself" is the new normal.

The "let's not believe in anyone but myself, do what I want, however I want, with no regard to anyone else, the me me me" attitude is the new normal.

I can certainly live with that. I will continue to work hard and set a fine example to fill the void homelife and society lacks.

It is just going to take a bit to sink in. It is a mighty big disappointment. But perhaps it is just the reality of the times. "The life is all about me and no one else" is lovely.

I am proud of this workforce. I just hope they dont procreate...

I wish them much happiness...in all their glorious selfishness and self rightgeousness. Thank you for the reality check.

As I mentioned before, our firm is quite generous. It is quite unique, in fact ... especially compared to what you describe.

It is a shame that the take take take, me me me attitude is so prevalent. I do believe much of the behavior is learned in the home. These kids parents must be real winners.

Well, I think I have a fair sampling and feedback to help me understand where the attitude is coming from. I can rest easy knowing that I am in the minority and my parents taught me well. I can look at myself in the mirror and know that I do my best. And I will help fill in the gaps in social graces, work ethics, & parental influence that were missing in these kids lives.

I should not be surprised anymore. And I wont be because I will now expect pure mediocrity and apathy in our workplace.

I see your point. But if I change my work habits and take on the blase attitude, our firm would surely never grow and prosper.

So for my "urban slave" mentality along with the upper management team that keeps the company growing, puts food on the table and gas in your car, and extra money so you can party and take advantage of the rest of us, I salute you.

You sure have it all figured out.

Thank you for your .02 - I guess I can expect to continue working my fingers to the bone so you all can take full advantage.

By the way, this firm started in a garage with very little money and prospered and grew thanks to a solid work ethic. And there is absolutely no respect shown whatsoever. Nice. Meanwhile, party on Garth.