The Fatigue Factor

One of the great unmentioned subjects in the workplace is the effect of fatigue and yet in this "Everything is due by yesterday" world where insomnia and crazy schedules are common topics, you'd think that it would receive greater attention.

Where can you see fatigue at work?

• In the great idea that was conceived and then forgotten.
• In the questionable course of action that was taken because the decision makers were just too tired to consider alternatives.
• In the teamwork that was hindered because the members were too busy to socialize.
• In the abrupt email and the curt phone call.
• In the information that was not shared.
• In the phone calls that were not returned.
• In the "heads up" that was not given.
• In the morale that was damaged because small kindnesses were overlooked.
• In the time wasted staring out a window and thinking of nothing.
• In the weight increases and the drinking problems.
• In the people who jump ship because they want some time with their families.
• In the number of people who are just going through the motions.

A ground rule for crisis management teams is always to have a reserve of managers in place so the first team can take a rest. We often ignore such wisdom in our daily work.

Why are some crazy decisions made? Often because people are just too tired.