Keeping a Small Business Calm In a Culture of Chaos

Let's face it, some people live and thrive in an environment of chaos and crisis. I am NOT one of those people. While I do like a little energy and creative banter in my work world, I do not need to have yelling, arguing or a daily dose of "the sky is falling!" As a consultant and freelancer who has worked with a variety of different clients, I can honestly say that a mellow person CAN work with crisis-centered people, but it takes some effort.

I raised three kids as a single parent and managed to work as a freelancer during the craziest of the teenage years so I know that I can stay focused and get some work done when the world around me is falling apart, but I do not necessarily do my best work. It is important to identify what one's personal needs are in the work space. Do you need quiet to be able to concentrate? Does a work environment that feels precarious make you unproductive? Knowing your self can help you find a job where you can do your best work.

Of course, we do not always have as much control over our work environment as we would like-especially in small businesses where space, quiet and other resources may be at a premium. We often have to work with equipment that is not top-of-the-line, as well as in work environments where we don't have a great deal of choice and control. Believe it or not, there are some ways to cope with such environments and still work productively.

Consider working at times when the work environment is at its least chaotic. If you have some flexibility around your work hours, think of how you can schedule yourself to work when others are not there (or those who are the most obvious offenders of work peace are not there.) It may mean breaking up your day but if it makes you more productive and sane, it can be worth it.

It is also okay to set personal boundaries and stick to them. Let coworkers know that a closed door means "do not disturb" or consider sticking a flag over your desk when you need some peace and quiet. One person I know puts orange hazard cones across the entry of her cubicle when she needs to be left out of the office crisis zone.

Of course, a sense of humor can be your best defense in a culture of chaos. You do not have to take things on or take them personally. Make a joke, walk away, and try to keep your own ability to laugh things off in tact. It may be your strongest survival tool in an environment of constant crisis.