Advice from my Mom
When I was in maybe 8th grade, I asked for a “cd player” for Christmas. My mom, knowing I already had a portable CD player, realized that I was asking for a stereo. After clarifying she said something that’s stuck with me all these years: “You really should be specific about what you want or (she held her hands out flat and imitated a deep sigh) you’ll be disappointed in what you receive.” I remember that image in my head as if it had happened just a few minutes ago. I could even tell you what she was wearing.
I often find, in reflection, that the results I receive are the most disappointing or frustrating come from poop and unclear instructions. “Give me that.” instead of “Give me that towel so I can clean up this mess.” “Move.” instead of “Please move out from in front of the dishwasher.”