The Calm After the Storm

How to Restore a Sense of Equilibrium After a Major Upheaval at Work

A visitor to our web site sent in a question about restoring balance in her workplace following a recent upheaval. Read on for a proven solution to this all-too-common problem!

Team Challenge submitted: In our fairly small company, we've had recent upheaval. A senior level person has been let go, we've lost a couple of key accounts, and most of us are not certain of where we are headed as a company. We're stressed. What can we do to get back a sense of equilibrium?

Susan's response: If you are feeling confusion and discomfort, you can bet that others in your company are feeling it too. And you all are not alone. Many are feeling significant stress in their work lives right now. Though the reasons may vary, you can rest assured that you have company. Does that reminder provide some small solace?

Let's consider your question for regaining a sense of equilibrium. With confusion and stress, many of us report feeling "out of control" of our futures. There's also time spent in speculation and worry, neither of which is helpful to our peace of mind.

Here's a suggestion that can benefit all of the employees of your company. Schedule a company wide meeting. Facilitate a discussion that includes the following questions:

On what essential truths and beliefs does our company have unity?
What are specific knowledges/skills/interests that each of us can contribute to the marketing/growth/financial health of this company?
What are you doing that blocks how our work team works together?
For the health of our company, to what extent do we need to: strengthen current relationships? build collaborative relationships? enhance critical relationship?

Encourage thoughtful and specific responses and you will jump start valuable thinking to a more positive direction with specific goals that add value to your company.

Each and every employee needs to accept responsibility for contributing to the growth and financial health of your company. Most employees are willing to do this with useful information, specific direction and fair follow through.

What are you waiting for? Schedule your meeting this week!

"The undertaking of a new action brings new strength."
-- Evenius

By Susan B. Wilson, President, Executive Strategies