Member-only story
Is “The Squeaky Wheel Gets the Grease” An Unfortunate Truth?
Contemplating an old saying and what it really means in todays world.
I’m moving to a LifePlan community and they are in the process of refurbishing my ranch home. I have some huge windows on one side and requested some pine trees be planted on the side of my home for more privacy. No. Not possible. Admin has to approve.
What?
I threw a fit. I cried about the horrible view I would have and that I’m reconsidering moving now. I caused a huge ruckus in the front office and probably ruined all of their Thanksgivings. I left to Florida for the week and didn’t communicate with them at all.
Last week I got an e-mail. I can plant all the trees I want.
The squeaky wheel gets the grease. But, is that how we want to live?
Has anyone felt this way? Like you have to throw a hissy fit in order to get something you want when a polite conversation should do the trick? That day I was just pushed to my limit with this request I made for trees, and other issues, and I had a total meltdown. Later, I was embarrassed. Then, when I saw it produced results, I thought I might use this unexpected tactic again. But isn’t that a bad idea? I don’t want to be labeled as one of “those kind of people”. Or, do I? I like things my way when I think I’m right. Now it’s a conundrum.
