So then...

About Me

Welcome to my blog. My pen name is Eva James. I'm an aspiring writer paying the bills working as a legal secretary. Bullied by my boss in 2008, I looked for another job but the recession hit. Feeling trapped, I started this blog. Trevor Griffiths, legendary theatre, TV and film writer said at the outset, "I like the writing a lot: smart, cool, placed. If you were prepared/able to take your prick of a boss on, you'd marmelise him." I was unaware back then that it would catalogue one of the most extreme cases of workplace bullying in the UK. I've found another job, but am subject to a gagging order. I'm still blogging, of course. Just don't tell the lawyers!

Wednesday 9 March 2011

Crepe Crusader 2011

I can hardly let Pancake Day slide without reference to this time last year when, suffering from anxiety and depression, Betty Crocker pancakes were my dietary staple, seconded only by Greens pancakes (the only difference is you have to add your own egg).

What I don’t know about pancake mixes or workplace bullying isn’t worth knowing.

I was tickled yesterday every time some asked “Will you have pancakes tonight, Eva?” as my new colleagues discussed crepe fillings. I did have pancakes yesterday evening. I’m not going to buck tradition - but that’s my lot for this year.

There’s a saying about those who want to change the situation they’re in. They’re said to be trying to “flip the script”. A year on, I feel I’ve done just that. And I’ve also flipped the pancake on comfort eating.

Best wishes

BBTB x

4 comments:

Mr Fan said...

hi, I do recall your blog on pancakes and to see what you have done by flipping bad to good takes courage into the unknown. I am going to put my hand up and when all the box's are ticked, follow your footsteps and work for a new employer. sssh

Unknown said...

there,proud to be number 20.My computer prowess never ceases to amaze me! Like a kid with a new toy! I bet you ve gone off pancakes now! Did the comfort eating pile on the weight, and has all your exercise sorted that out!? Do you enjoy your job now? As you seemed unconvinced that this was the right path to continue with?Or when you publish that book will you become a lady of leisure like jk Rowling. I would love for you to have that happy ending...

Bullied By The Boss said...

Ha ha,

You're so good Mr Fan, reading so regularly that you rembember last year. If I knew where you lived I'd send you a box of crepes to say thanks!

Wow, that's fantastic that you're off to work for someone else! Do keep me informed. If they don't promote you within 3 months there's something wrong with them!

Hi Johanna,

Huge welcome to the blog! And you're number 20. If you've read today's blog "Daydream Believer" you'll appreciate how great it is for me to have you with us!

D'you know I really have gone off pancakes and yes, I did pile on the weight. Me and carbs don't really mix. I had to work hard to get the weight off again.

My job is good in that I work in the Employment Department of a law firm. I really do get to see both sides and I've learned a huge amount. I have so much empathy for workplace troubles.

My overall dream is to write part time and work a regular job part time. Having written my workplace bullying book, there are more niches I could write for. It must be wonderful to write a succession of books to help others.

So what's your story? I hope you're not being bullied at the moment.

x

Unknown said...

Hmm..law firm..you think.."clever, evolved intelligent people", an interesting assumption....ironically..it seems bullying is quite often prevalent in "caring" professions...nursing, teaching, charity organisations....I have a theory on this !. too much stress and pressure from above so bullying an outlet...or/and...all empathy skills used up and worn out..so someone gets none!

As for me? teaching profession

Trod on some toes for being too efficient and threatening...
or just perhaps taking on someones job who had walked out ...
MOst definitely...being perceived as a soft target by the temporary power holders.
Overwhelmed by a series of breathtaking lies and accusations in abid to remove me from my job.
Not one substantiated first hand piece of evidence..as Tim would have insisted..Oh boy such a learning curve!
held in there....proved myself..good inspections ...and provided the money that kept the place open ironically!
lost immense amount of trust and self confidence...not broken..but angry..perpetrators disappeared mostly leaving evidence of great incompetence...would have greater armour next time..but I was brought up to be respectful and "nice" and people out of their comfort zone do not hold others accountable.
exasperated with work..envy you your direction!
Problem does nt stop there sadly, at risk of droning on. My beautiful kind daughter has suffered school/neighbour bullying over a few years..and I m picking up the pieces...unbelievable how spiteful youngsters can be and DEVIOUS! physical and mental assault an adult would be severely cautioned for...and parents in denial...i dread the consequences for other girls she bullies...
think the empathy for your kids wears thin when you nurse cancer patients regularly? I can find reasons for her behaviour, but I cannot accept the inability of these bullies to empathise ...I believe they have no role model in their life..getting support from the school with a child scared of repercussions ..who doesn 't want to make a fuss...and knows once reported the other will lie through her teeth..and not appear to be a "troublemaking "parent" has been a nightmare.Yes, schools have legal "policies", but support procedures for victims seem thin on the ground...they even seem to support "restorative justice!" the victim meets offender approach to mediation..luckilly my adorable new husband saved me from going to thst particular type of slaughter! I really thought I could stand up for myself and clear my name...when I d been already sentenced in the bullies minds! Sorry for the angry writing...I so want these issues adressed!!!!!
On a softer note..I have a happy personal ending with my supportive knight in shining armour...His horse alittle slow coming ..but as a sick making quote from pretty woman.."I want the dream"...I got it...Keep believing in your dreams! and be proactive! xx

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