WORKING FOR DENIS!!
After typing so many articles for Denis to enable him to help others, I thought it only appropriate that I write one for him. That in itself is no easy task to aspire to as Denis would always make many changes to his work and go through many drafts until everything was "spot on". But here goes.
I personally had the privilege of working for Denis as his "trusty assistant ", as he called me, for some 8 months. What an amazing experience it was. The only regret I have is that it was tragically cut short.
I was a little apprehensive about working for Denis as I had heard from Heidi that Denis had many secretaries that did not last. I can understand why! Who can work at a thousand miles an hour, full on all day and still keep up with him? It was a task made easier by the fact that us mothers can "multi task" surprisingly well and also by taking advice from Rabb one night on how to handle "the man".
"Give him direction and focus." said Rabb. That worked like a charm. Whenever he could not fit everything in "right there and right then" (including the 7 minute surf - which enables him to chill out for awhile) I would focus him on the one priority that needed to be done first. It worked well. Denis had a child like quality about him and I would often say to him that I looked after him, like I did my kids. Trying to make sure he left to go to an appointment on time, had his keys with him, had found his sunnies and mobile phone and had not left behind whatever files or paper work that were needed.
"Flippant" he would call me, as I would regularly pay him out about something and have a joke with him to ease the tension that built up with the thousand things that he wanted to do in one day. Then I would hear that laugh of his, we all know so well, that would make your day brighter.
The work was varied and very interesting and always left you with the pleasure that comes with helping others. Denis took every client to heart and gave 110% no matter who they were or what type of work they required. "Thanks for a great day Ness." He would say, "It's a pleasure working with you". What a man! He was always grateful for a job well done and never held back on telling you so.
Denis's ambition to achieve so many things was inspirational to me. His drive and enthusiasm to do the next project - whether work related, charity related or surf trip related was infectious. He would fleetingly reflect on a job well done and then be straight onto the next new project or two while planning a surf trip at the same time.
Keep surfing Denis and be an inspiration to those you meet now and continue doing the thousand things at once like you always do. I miss you heaps but don't worry, I'm still looking after things here for you. like I always do.
Aloha, Chow and Cheers,
Love Ness
