How to Overcome Feeling Overwhelmed in a Chaotic Workplace
Deadlines are approaching, budgets are not being met, and you are constantly being pulled in multiple directions. Not to mention your boss is asking why there’s still a stack of paperwork on your desk waiting to be managed. Or your digital clients are pushing projects way out of scope, and it is starting to take a SERIOUS toll on your mental & physical health.
What do you do first?
Scream 💀
Face dive into your bed to handle everything another day 💤
Daydream about a glass of wine later 🍷
Evaluate, delegate, and do what you can 📝
While options A-C may be the most appealing (trust me, I KNOW), option D is the essence of what will get you through feeling overwhelmed in a chaotic workplace.
WHAT IS A CHAOTIC WORKPLACE?
As you can probably guess from the title, a chaotic workplace is one that is totally off the rails. Important details are slipping through the cracks, teams aren’t working well together, everyone is overworked, and there’s likely no support from management.
TLNT writer Crystal Spraggings writes that “Dysfunctional workplaces have three things in abundance: 1. chaos and confusion; 2. sheep; 3. apathy”
And, you know what, I think she’s totally on point! There’s often a whole lot of confusion, some people who are just going with the flow, and a lot of people who just don’t care.
So if you find yourself in a small minority who DO care, you’re likely pretty stressed out unless you’ve learned how to manage everything.
Why is it important to prevent yourself from getting overwhelmed? Because it’s a purposeless feeling that just zaps your energy! Feeling overwhelmed does nothing to help you get past those hurdles.
So, take a breather from your chaotic workplace stresses and keep reading to find out what you can do to regain composure.
STRATEGIES TO PREVENT OVERWHELM IN A BUSY WORK ENVIRONMENT:
I’ve worked in environments that run like a well-oiled machine. I’ve also worked in environments where everyday was a new challenge. Both have their perks when it comes to self-growth, but it’s safe to say we’d all prefer a peaceful workplace.
Here’s what I recommend that you do to prevent getting overworked in a chaotic or busy workplace:
Develop a routine for yourself. Routines encourage structure and the rest of the team could pick up on strategies that worked best for you.
Schedule a break for yourself on your calendar. If things are crazy, chances are that your breaks and lunch have gone out the window. The time to break this cycle is NOW. Set up a break for yourself (even if it’s just 5 minutes). Set it as private so no one can see it in your calendar and find a spot to get some time to decompress.
Only take on projects that strategically align you as a performer. If you think you do not have the capacity or the bandwidth to take on a project, do not commit to it. Finish what you started before you accept a new project.
Have an outlet or someone you trust outside of your work environment to talk to about work related issues. Find a therapist, a coach, or a trusted friend that you can “vent” to about your issues at work. Avoid contributing to workplace drama or bringing your stress home to your family.
Bring headphones to minimize distraction. If possible, try using headphones and tuning into a podcast or artist that you like. Music can help us focus so you may enjoy that added perk too!
Have an open door policy – with boundaries. Set up open office hours so people know when you are available for drop ins.
Most importantly, celebrate your successes! Being in a stressful and chaotic environment can trick you into focusing on the negative. If you experience a win, no matter how small, take time to pat yourself on the back.
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