watercooler gridlock

commuting, cubicles and workplace dynamics

Getting work done can be difficult. Getting ahead can seem impossible. And getting along in some workplaces might seem as realistic as pissing through the eye of a needle. If you commute by car, even GETTING TO WORK may tear you appart.

Unusual blockages are perplexing. Picture this: there’s a section of road and a time of day where you ‘normally’ just flow along. Today though? Brake lights as far as you can see. As you creep along, things become more clear. The redlights of cars begin to be overpowered by the flashing reds and blues of the protective service vehicles.

Somethings up. A lane is closed. If you’re anything like me, that’s when your throat begins to tighten up. A zipper merge is coming and the stupids are about to reveal themselves to you.

The first are the early mergers. They seem to think that they need to merge into the flowing lane three miles before the blockage. They get in line. They are certain that they are ‘right’ or ‘good’. This might not be the case, but that’s h…