Have you ever stopped to notice just how well most people get along in the workplace? I know there are a few exceptions, but for the most part, most people get along with their co-workers. Now when you consider that we spend more time with our coworkers than with our families, you might think that might cause some problems. I mean, even the closest of families can get on each other's nerves after being together for long periods of time. However, at work we can work next to someone day in and day out, for years and still keep a pleasant relationship.

It takes an effort to maintain an ongoing, cordial, meaninful relationship with those you work with day in and day out. You have to have a special attitude towards people, and you have to understand that people are different. By that I mean people have different ideas and differences of opinion. You have to be aware of these things and not become defensive or offensive with your co-workers. Everybody's job is important, not just yours, but each and every person. To maintan a good working relationship we must realize that no job is too insignificant or menial, too small. To be suc- cessful we have to depend on everybody.

We also must develop a mutual trust with each other, everyone working just as hard, if not harder than the next person. Promoting good work habits helps to establish that trust in one another. If you show up for work you expect your co-worker to show up for work as well, and both of you are expected to work. I was raised to believe that if you worked for someone, you showed up everyday and worked. You earned your salary and you were thankful to have the job. Times have changed so it seems.

Work is the place for work, not a lot of small talk, gossip, or put-downs. You can, without being nosy show some concern for each others problems, after all you're supposed to be a work family. If it appears a co-worker is slacking off some, check first to see if there may be some personal reasons, problems at home, sickness in the family, etc., before criticizing your coworker. Be an encourager, not a discourager. Be a stepping stone and not a stumbling block to others. By using a little concern and compassion, we can help make every day on the job both pleasant and productive.