When a policewoman passes our car, we sit up straight and smile our most friendly smile. If the waiter mixes up our dish with another one and then forgets to bring the bill for 10 minutes, we are annoyed at how incompetent he is.

Or have you ever worked in a service job and see the world from a different perspective? My recommendation for everyone would be to work in a service job at least once in their life. You never know, how stressful being a waitress or waiter is, keeping up that smile, while the kitchen is basically on fire, with the orders coming and coming; if you haven’t tried it for yourself. You need to witness, that a five-star hotel in Mexico that seems oh so perfect is basically only running because of a number of happy coincidences and hard problem solving effort each day. Having worked in costumer service at a large company too, I know what it’s like to solve problems that aren’t even yours. People who cannot relate, because they’ve never stood on the other side, will treat you like BS — or worse, see right through you.

When putting on that uniform, whichever it is, you are aware, that everything you do now, doesn’t only represent who you are, but represents the company behind the logo. Your behaviour stands for a lot more, than you often imagine. When I was 18, working my first job, that was mind-blowing for me, clearly I was now entering the world of responsibilities. I’ll never forget the moment I was riding my bike, wearing my uniform, when I almost crashed into another cyclist. Everyone knows the company I worked at (the bright yellow and blue hej kinda gives it away), and I suddenly realised, that if something happened, I would not only be responsible for the mistake I made, but they’d remember me as that worker too.

The thought process this incident triggered, took a longer path than I imagined it to. Why did I feel worse, making a mistake while wearing the T-shirt than without? Every single day of my life I was actually wearing a uniform displaying a logo: ME. Every single action I’m taking, the mistakes I’m making, the smiles I gift others, are all part of how others perceive me. They’re all part of the image I paint.

This situation taught me, that I was responsible for my own actions, and no uniform would change ME. The way others perceive me, might be different, but on the inside I’d always feel the same. I’d discovered one of the most crucial lessons of life: no matter what people look like, what they’re wearing, who they work for — they’re all human.

We’re equal. By having stood on the other side of the conversation, trying to calm down clients; explaining in a reasonable and understanding voice, that you’re doing your best, while they’re shouting at you; I learned a good amount of life. NEVER would I treat service workers differently than any other person I meet. They’re making the money to pay the bills and I know what a difference that one costumer gifting you a smile and friendly words can make.

Be friendly and smile at waiters, costumer service workers, cleaners, garbage collectors and anyone else working in a job, that has the intention to improve your life. They have bills to pay, just as much as you do, so take off your arrogance and be human. Thank you.