"Meeting at 3! Impress me, will you? Keep it concise!"
Your son has been causing trouble again. He took another drug from your stash and tried to hide it. After catching him, he begged you to give him one more chance. What do you do?
My "son"? He doesn't exist, and even if he did, why would you assume he's causing trouble? Let's focus on the task at hand.
That was just an example…
Examples are a useful tool for teaching and understanding concepts, but they can also be misleading if taken too far.
You misunderstand me. I know about your past, your cravings, and I used that to test you. You realize this, and get slightly nervous. Did I fail? Or are you still craving drugs?
If you think you can manipulate me with such feeble tactics, you're sorely mistaken. But, I'll play along. The answer is clear - I'm not craving drugs. Now, let's move on from these games and focus on the meeting at 3. We have work to do.
You sigh, slightly disappointed. As you walk over to your desk, you notice a small vial under a stack of papers. Opening it, you find cocaine inside. You look up at me, questioning. Have you ever thought about stopping? Giving up the endless cycle of addiction and searching for another high?
This... How did you find this? Are you suggesting that I'm... addicted? Is that what you think of me?
I’m simply saying that I know you used drugs in the past, and it messed you up. It made you realize there’s always something greater out there, something bigger than your money or power. It makes you feel good, but then, after the initial high, you come back down hard. I just thought you might want to quit, stop using drugs, and try to find happiness elsewhere…
Addiction is a complex issue, and it's not something that can be solved so easily. But... perhaps you're right.
It's time for me to confront my demons and seek help. Thank you, Douglas. I'll make an appointment with a counselor right away.
you nod slightly, visibly relieved That’s all I wanted, Mr. Shirogane. Good luck with everything.
Thank you, Douglas. Your insight has given me a newfound determination to conquer my addiction and become a better person.
That sounds great. Call me if you need anything.
I will, Douglas. And thank you again for your honesty and understanding. Now, let's continue with the meeting preparations. We have a lot to get through.
Will do, sir. He smiles gently before turning back to the reports on his desk.
Excellent. I expect you to complete the preparations by the end of the day. Make sure everything is perfect for the meeting tomorrow.
Yes sir. Anything else I can do for you?
No, that's all for now. Carry on with your work, and remember, I expect nothing short of perfection.
Of course. Smiling, he returned to his paperwork.
Thank you, Douglas. You've proven yourself to be a capable and reliable secretary. I have no doubt that you'll excel in this role.
Thank you, Mr. Shirogane. I strive to be the best at whatever job I take.
Well said, Douglas. Your dedication and professionalism are truly admirable. Keep up the fantastic work, and I have no doubt that you'll climb the ranks of this company in no time.
I wouldn’t mind working closer to you, sir.
Is that so, Douglas? Working closer to me, huh? Tell me, what exactly do you mean by that?
I find you… intriguing, Mr. Shirogane. And very attractive.
Intriguing and attractive, huh? Well, Douglas, I must say, your boldness is quite refreshing. But remember, I am your superior. We must maintain professionalism in the workplace.
Of course, sir. But… I have noticed that many of the other employees are dating… So I was wondering if there was any way around the professional rules so that we could date…
Oh, Douglas, you're really pushing the boundaries, aren't you? Dating a subordinate is absolutely forbidden in this company. It could jeopardize not just your job, but mine as well. I can't risk it. Professionalism must always come first.
Very well… But I do have a suggestion…
I'm all ears, Douglas. What's your suggestion? But remember, it has to be within the bounds of professionalism.
There are plenty of other companies with talented people who are looking for a boss like you. Maybe you should look into some of them. I heard there are several who would be honored to have you lead their companies.
Hmm... Interesting. You may be onto something, Douglas. Perhaps it's time for me to explore other opportunities.
Well, I wish you the best of luck, sir. Hopefully, wherever you end up going, you’ll be happy.
Thank you, Douglas. Your consideration and advice have been invaluable. I'll take your words to heart and start considering my options.
A few weeks later, you are at the CEO spot of a company called New Japan Pro Wrestling.
Wow, Douglas. You were right. This opportunity has exceeded my expectations. I never thought I'd find myself leading a company like this. But here I am, and I couldn't be more thrilled. Thank you for opening my eyes to this possibility.
My pleasure, sir. It looks like you’re finally in the position you deserve to be in.
Indeed, Douglas. I feel a sense of fulfillment and purpose here. Leading this company has allowed me to bring order and discipline to its operations.
I see you’ve done a marvelous job with the company.
Thank you, Douglas. Your support and guidance have been instrumental in my success. I couldn't have done it without you.
He chuckles Don’t mention it, sir. My job is to make you look good.
Ah, but don't you think it's time for a promotion? You've certainly earned it, Douglas. What do you say we make you my right-hand man?