The Hunch

Summary

The author initially suspected a coworker of misplacing their stapler but later realized it was in its proper place on a shelf after correcting their posture.

Abstract

Upon noticing a missing stapler, the author was quick to suspect that a coworker had taken it without permission, reflecting a common workplace frustration. However, by improving their posture, the author was able to spot the stapler on a top shelf where it had been left previously. This anecdote underscores the importance of checking one's immediate surroundings before jumping to conclusions and also playfully references the common adage about hunches and posture to highlight the value of a fresh perspective in problem-solving.

Opinions

The author seems to have a pet peeve about coworkers borrowing personal items without asking.
There is an underlying belief that poor posture can lead to a narrowed perspective, both physically and metaphorically.
The author values personal organization and the independence of verifying one's own space before accusing others.
The anecdote suggests that the author finds humor in the realization that the stapler was misplaced due to their own oversight, rather than the actions of a coworker.

Think twice

While working at my desk, I realized my stapler was missing. My coworkers know I hate it when they take things off my desk without asking first, and I had a hunch one of them had taken it. But, you know what they say about hunches: “Poor posture leads to backache.” So I sat up straight, and then I was able to see it sitting on the top shelf above my desk. Right where I’d left it.