Opinion
5 tricks to master the upcoming time change with your kids
by Martin Rupf
I'd be happy to help you with the reins, but ...
2.10.2020
Translation: machine translated
In my circle of friends, there are currents of movement like Moses' exodus from Egypt. My values dictate that I help them move. But I expect a minimum level of recognition from the person moving. You ora and I labora, it doesn't work like that.
Dear friend, whom I am to help you move. Your new flat is coming, your will be done, but don't strain my nerves. I am not a slave, not a moving company. I am here on a Saturday of my own free will. So make my martyrdom as pleasant as possible by adhering to these five commandments.
1. give me my daily bread today
I'll get up early for you. Maybe even with a bit of a headache. Love your neighbour. I stick to it, so please do the same. I don't expect much in the morning. A croissant and coffee are enough. But without that, you'll be in a bad mood and won't feel like dragging your box spring down five flights of stairs.
2. you should already be packed
There are unwritten laws. For example, that you put a new roll of toilet paper in the holder when you've used up the last one. Or that you take turns paying the round. Or that your flat is packed in boxes when I turn up. You don't have to sit at the breakfast table in a good mood in your still fully furnished flat. At most, your Moka may still be on the cooker to fulfil the first commandment. The rest must be ready for transport.
3. you should plan generously in terms of time
"Everything will be ready in no time, no problem. The van is booked until 2 p.m., we can easily manage." No. Don't underestimate the work. Don't underestimate the need for a few breaks. Don't stress myself out with meticulously timed Excel lists. Don't lose your composure if we're ten minutes behind schedule. Don't make any more plans for the day and don't invite people round in the afternoon just to help drink the cold beer.
4. Don't let me put your clothes away
For me, the move begins with packed boxes and ends with packed boxes. I'll be happy to help you set up your furniture and put the boxes in the right room, but I certainly won't sort your clothes by colour. Please do that on your own and in peace over the next few days. You don't need me for that, I'm not here for that.
5. You should work for yourself
Delegation is to be understood in addition to, not as a substitute for, physical labour. You should not stand around and tell me where to carry things. Write the boxes in advance, then you can carry them without any problems. I'm also reluctant to pick up the van you've hired somewhere in the suburbs and leave a credit card or cash as a deposit. Only to realise when I return it that the rental office has been closed since 12 noon. I'm then allowed to drive there again on weekdays to sort out the finances, just because you can't drive. Take responsibility for your move.
All in all, you shouldn't take my whole hand if I willingly give you my little finger. I'm doing this because I like you and would like to continue to do so in the future. So do what you can before and during the reins.
Amen.
My life in a nutshell? On a quest to broaden my horizon. I love discovering and learning new skills and I see a chance to experience something new in everything – be it travelling, reading, cooking, movies or DIY.
23 comments
later