What Came Before

I have a feeling I'm about to be judged for the current state of being. My frustration at the idea of receiving negative judgements at what it is now is due to the fact that the newcomer does not know the state before and all the work that went into fixing that let alone praise for what was accomplished. If they knew the full story they'd be happy to see things as they are at present.

This was a good reminder for me. Ignorant newcomers should not be quick to judge as they don't know the history of what came before. Accusing those who are in charge now for not doing enough is not only unfair but pointless.

Uninformed newcomers may (and should) ask the informed experienced people for information about the history. Usually those in charge are happy to share the full story. Only then can the newcomer gain an appreciation for what good things were accomplished towards a good end (usually commonly shared goal).

Once the newcomers approach the situation with the viewpoint that we're all on the same team and that we're not working against each other can we act as a team. The newcomers with ideas for improvement can in a respectful way, suggest changes and further improvements. The suggestions should not be made in the spirit of the newcomers telling the other people what to do. The suggestions that should be made are the type that the newcomers are ready, willing, and able to take on themselves. The newcomers with their fully charged enthusiasm and motivation and high energy levels (having not yet been tapped out from prior work on the project) can really help the situation.

What kind of person are you?

Are you the type that sits back lazily and criticizes and wants everyone else to do the work? Are you the type that chooses not to criticize the hard work of others before you were in the picture?

I suggest you also remain silent with your suggestions unless you are ready to begin working hard on the endeavor yourself. And go easy on those who are the worker bees until and if you are willing to become one of them.