When Mia finally landed her dream job as store manager, she was thrilled. Determined to boost performance, she introduced strict new rules: no breaks, no chatting, and harsh penalties for mistakes. Her team, once supportive of her rise from intern to manager, quickly became overwhelmed and fearful.
Driven by ambition, Mia extended hours, cut time off, and pushed her exhausted staff harder, believing discipline would drive results. But sales plummeted. In frustration, she fired a tired employee and then dismissed Walter, the kind elderly janitor, for speaking up.
The next day, the store’s owner, Mr. Bennett, visited. Alarmed by the low morale, he questioned Mia—and was stunned to hear she’d fired Walter. “You fired the co-owner,” he said. Years ago, Walter had saved Bennett’s life as a child and was rewarded with company shares. He stayed on as janitor, donating his income to charity.
Mr. Bennett told Mia Walter would now decide her future. Shaken, Mia visited Walter to apologize. He forgave her and shared his wisdom: success comes from treating people with care and respect. Humbled, Mia rehired the fired employee, eased the rules, and won back her team.
With Walter’s guidance, the store flourished—and Mia eventually became CEO. Walter? He remained the janitor, doing what he loved.
