Making Peace with an Out-of-Control Workplace

Many of us imagine the perfect workplace to be one of peace, tranquility and efficiency. In recent years, many companies have gone out of their way to create work environments that will promote a feeling of peace and a work pace that is efficient and effective. In reality, many of us work in chaotic work environments'"there may not be enough time, supplies, and resources to meet all the deadlines and requirements of the job. Instead of fighting that "out-of-control" feeling that permeates many work environments, maybe the best survival technique is to accept it and make peace with all that chaos in order to function best with in it.

Some jobs and industries are known for a bit of chaos. Chances are if you work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange or as a reporter for a busy newspaper, you do not expect your work environment to be calm, peaceful and coordinated. In fact, there may be a certain amount of productivity that comes from working in a frantic, fast-paced work world. A small local business can also be chaotic and have an out-of-control atmosphere - things need to get done and there is only so much time and resources in which to accomplish them. Instead of fighting the chaos, learn how to thrive.

There is a difference between dysfunction and a work environment that feels out-of-control. You may need to decide if your workplace is basically functionally but chaotic and if you can find a way to work within that reality. Organize your own work schedule and your own work station to your best ability - that way, when the rest of the work environment is out of control, you can still find a stabilizing factor to help you stay grounded. Make it a goal to stay on task and meet deadlines - this will also help you to thrive and function within a great deal of chaos.

Accepting the realities of your work environment, and accepting the coworkers, supervisors, etc. that are part of your work world can be an important way to make peace with "what is" instead of wanting to turn it into something it is not. Of course, most workplaces have plenty of room for improvement but if you are in an industry or business that is often "out of control," consider embracing the stimulation and possibilities of the environment instead of trying to fight it.