FINDING OPPORTUNITY IN THE HEART OF CHAOS
Whether you thrive on or feel unnerved by chaos, there comes a point when you have to turn theory into action in order to create the sense of forward momentum that helps you reach your goals. As with any plan of action, the big-picture concept must be whittled into smaller pieces that allow you to take individual steps that ultimately lead to the intended goal or vision of what's possible.
The following are questions whose answers can serve as reflection points or discussion starters to lead you toward that goal. There aren’t any right or wrong answers, just the answers that work best for you. For the maximum benefit from this exercise, you must answer the questions honestly and directly in order to discover the shortest path to creating order out of any situation in which you see chaos or uncertainty as challenges.
Consider enlisting trusted colleagues, friends or family members to serve as a sounding board or to provide a "reality check" for your answers. Why? Many times when we’re enmeshed in what seems like chaos, we don’t perceive situations as clearly as others might. If anything else, another person's questions or comments can help us gain greater clarity, understanding and commitment about potential options, pathways and resources.
To fully explore the various facets of these questions, you can ask your colleagues to personify certain perspectives that you’re holding, such as cynic or optimist. They’ll answer the questions in their respective roles, allowing you to "hear" each side and consider the merits of each. If you prefer to use these questions as reflection points for more private mulling, play each of those roles yourself.
Reflection Points & Discussion Starters
• Setting aside the chaos for a moment, what is your ultimate goal?
• What is causing the current state of chaos?
• What specifically is bothering you or causing you stress about this chaos?
• What patterns led to this chaos, and how can you prevent them in the future?
• What is in your control with regards to this issue, and what isn’t in your control?
• Similarly, what is your responsibility, and what isn’t?
• What patterns are emerging from the chaos that signal "good news" on the horizon?
• What resources exist that could help you to "untangle" the chaos? (This can include other people, time, finances, motivation, strengths, experiences, etc. Make the list long so that you can see all of your options.)
• With these resources in mind, what actions can you take today to dissipate the chaos? The week? This month?
• How will you feel once you have alleviated the chaos, and how will you celebrate?
Copyright 2002. This information provides food for thought rather than counsel specifically designed to meet the unique needs of your organization. Please use it mindfully. The most effective approaches are those that have been tailored to your unique needs and organizational culture, so don't hesitate to engage the assistance of an adviser whose perspective you trust and value. Think we can help? We welcome your email inquiry.
Visit About Ivy Sea or give us a call to learn how we can help you discover how to make the most of your culture, communication, talents, services, infrastructure and systems to take you to greater levels of mastery and success as an individual, group or organization.
Generosity circle: Ivy Sea Online is provided as a public-service resource available to all. If you appreciate the inspiration and free resources available to you on Ivy Sea Online, consider leaving a tip to help keep the generosity flowing. Even the smallest contribution helps to offset the costs of developing and maintaining this public-service site, and contributing is as easy as can be! Thank you!
Organizational communication portal
What else would you like to see us cover? Let us know!
How do you affect your community?
Maintaining a mindset of excellence
