Escape from the Hamster Wheel Strategy

I’ve written about hamster wheel workplaces before. They’re those chaotic, non-stop project environments where everyone feels like they’re constantly moving but not really getting anywhere. 

This could happen for many reasons, including:

• A strategy lacking any real choices, OR
• The choices not being converted into clear project prioritization, OR
• No project governance to maintain traction, OR
• A lack of change management, causing pressure on those impacted by the projects.

These environments aren’t fun to work in.

I know, because they sometimes call me for help and I can see the frustration.

People get sick.

People get stressed.

People get overwhelmed.

Even leaders want to leave. 

Some people will resign without even having another job lined up. 

That’s when productivity drops, and you get “presenteeism”, where people show up to work but aren’t fully engaged or effective.  The high performers keep pushing, thinking they can get on top of it all, but eventually, they too get exhausted and disillusioned. And then they resign.

Before you know it, you’re facing an unhealthy, toxic culture that can be difficult to turn around.

So what can you do about it?

_______________

Here are 3 tips to break the cycle:

1. Understand the root cause of the project overwork I’ve outlined a few possible reasons above. Take the time to really assess which of these is causing the hamster wheel effect in your organization.

1. Take a look at the full article here or subscribe to Turbocharge Weekly directly to your inbox to ensure you receive 3 tips every week.
2. Take a look at the full article here or subscribe to Turbocharge Weekly directly to your inbox to ensure you receive 3 tips every week.

___

By taking these steps, you can regain control of the workload, protect your team, and steer your organization toward a healthier, more sustainable future.

_______________

*** Please forward this newsletter to someone who will also find it valuable. ***

_______________

Quote of the week

"The culture of a workplace - an organization's values, norms and practices - has a huge impact on our happiness and success."

Adam Grant

_______________

Keep turbocharging 😊🌱📈

_____________

PS Turbocharge your strategic influence 😊🌱📈

Join The Turbochargers Hub to use AI in your strategic projects

Email me lisa@theturbochargers.com to work with me on strategic planning, execution and AI strategies

Subscribe to this weekly email if you received it from a friend

Connect on LinkedIn

About Lisa Carlin

Lisa Carlin is a Strategy Execution Specialist.  She works with business leaders to plan and execute their strategies in tough environments.  Her clients love having her expertise and guidance to navigate their workplace culture and use AI to achieve success.

Lisa created The Turbochargers Hub, so leaders can master the art of strategic influence and generate momentum for organizational change.

Lisa is author of the globally acclaimed newsletter, Turbocharge Weekly, read by 8,000 business leaders.

Lisa’s career includes roles at McKinsey and Accenture, then running her own business since 1999.  Over this time she has delivered over 50 implementations with a 96% success rate.