Oh, how I was resistant to the change several years ago, when something brand new was announced at the newspaper which I was employed at. I recall the day clearly. After the computer was set up the editor asked me to sit on the table. I tried to bribe him the editor, but he ignored my request.
The instructor gently helped me through the word processing software, and then left. I was terrified of this thing. I’ve not been a great typing expert however, I was eager to return to my “old beloved” typewriter that was sitting at my desk.
I was aware that I needed to change my mindset. My thoughts reverted back to the time I had written notes on a notepad and transferred the copy I had written onto the typewriter. The editor instructed me to remove my pen and pad , and begin writing with the keyboard. This was a change I was hesitant about at first, but soon realized it to be a time-saver. In the word processor, all I needed to do when I made a mistake was to backspace or type to correct it. It was definitely easier than using typing. I’ve made mistakes, and make mistakes after all those years, but I don’t wish to go back to typing.
Following that experience, why would I not want to use an electronic check-out machine at the station where I bought gasoline? In the beginning, I was afraid of these stations. I would come across them every week. I found out that these self service stations were erected in military commissaries across the United States on a trial basis. Maybe I ought to consider myself lucky to be able to use one? But I did not. My mindset was to let the cashier take care of the matter if it did not go through. I wasn’t experienced, so it took my time more than twice the time to complete. I did not want to go through the process. It is necessary to search for each one of those small bars that have numerals on your merchandise to ensure it is recorded in the receipt. I witnessed frustrated checkers deal with things that didn’t accept.
The day finally arrived when I went to the store again with a full cart. It was so crowded with shoppers waiting with their carts nearly bumper to bumper. I realized I would have a long wait to go to the checkout. Then I heard a announcement from a loud speaker that self-service check-outs were now available. “Well I’m not sure why?” I asked myself.
I was greeted by a young lady who provided me with instructions . She was followed by another person who took my food item to weigh it and stamp. As I placed my first can on the glass, a light turned green, displaying the name and the price of my product. A voice repeated the message. I repeated the process again and again. I became more comfortable with the bars and process. Then I experienced the ultimate highlight of the whole experience. The young lady approached me at that time smiling. “You are a great person, and you’re among the top first timers I’ve ever witnessed,” she said. I thank her and left with a puffy face. Then, in the car I celebrated being out much faster than the other people who were chugging through the line.
Then, it might have been that bad at all. What’s the reason to resist the change? I’d do it again.
The article The process of dealing with change may not be as terrible after all was first published at The Andalusia Star-News.
