Totally agree. Like, we had a new operator who spent years on landscaping projects, and when he joined our site, he couldn't keep pace with the grade changes and production targets. I mean, it's a different world when you're shifting massive loads all day versus tweaking a small area. Maybe it's just me, but that hands-on speed under pressure is what separates pros from hobbyists.

Used to think it wasn't a big deal until I saw a spot that got totally washed out from people doing that. It creates these ugly scars in the dirt that just get worse when it rains. Now every time I see a shortcut I picture that whole hillside slowly falling apart. Your dad's making the problem worse for everyone who comes after. It really isn't worth saving two minutes.

Keep a small notepad and pen in your kit bag. I started doing crosswords or simple magazine puzzles during those tests. It gives your brain a little task and makes the wait feel more bearable than just staring at the clock.