I used to work for a cruise line. I started off recruiting and hiring musicians and later promoted to leading the music department. At the time I moved to the Music Department, My leaders informed me of a decision to increase musician working hours, and it was my job to execute.

I made mistakes executing the decision. New to the role, I didn't know what to expect or how to manage the changes properly. At the same time, I felt I did what I needed to do. Candidly, I felt taking a decision so quickly without setting the stage adequately caused more problems than benefits. Nonetheless, I enacted the new policy. I always knew we would have challenges; I just never anticipated the depth.

Musicians experienced several challenges, especially singers: vocal nodules, polyps, stress injuries, and the anxiety of potentially losing their instrument. On more than one occasion, musicians would break into tears of fright, concerned about their futures. What could I do?

I came from a world where I worked 5 hours per day, without a day off. I don't mind that type of work. For the organizations that need a workhorse style musician, I am the best individual to serve them. I realize that not everyone is like me. This realization made it difficult for me to empathize with the team. But, when I was finally able to see the world from my team's point of view, I discovered an insight. Our gig is not the gig for musicians like them.

I'm not trying to say that I didn't welcome my team - of course, I did. I am saying that the job changed, and perhaps, the musicians hired are not the type that wants to play that kind of gig. I don't know many musicians that would want to play that kind of gig. Still, the realization stands - this gig is for people that like to work long hours.

When it's not right, perhaps it's not for you.

When it's not right, empathize with those that hired you; try and see the world from their point of view. What changed? What caused the change to happen? Are you still the answer?

When it's not right, It's possible that after reflection you'll realize that you're not the right person for the gig. You may not be the answer to their question. That's okay. The venue owner, employer, or contractor can find another person. If they can't, perhaps they need to reflect. Maybe they're not the answers to your questions.

Empathy is a two-way street.
Own your world.

When it's not right - reflect - get out.
Find others like you.
Connect them.
They're safe.