Well we are at the half way mark of what I have labelled Pork Chop Season and true to form the “Pork Chops” are out and about.
So what is Pork Chop Season I hear you ask?
I have been in HR for many years and have observed a phenomenon that occurs at the end of the year and peaks in November that I have labelled Pork Chop Season. It is the period where we are tired, out of patience and feel as though the end of year break just can’t come quickly enough. It’s when all the unrealistic deadlines culminate and it feels as though it just all has to get done now!
With all the pressures and no patience in reserves we start to see the ugly side of humanity.
I would suggest that unless we acknowledge the phenomenon of Pork Chop Season, that we are all capable of unleashing the “Pork Chop” within.
I have compiled some tips to help us all in the midst of Pork Chop Season –
- Readjust
If you feel the pressure of culminating deadlines know that everything doesn’t stop at the end of the year, life keeps on going, you can readjust. Learn the art of planning in the new year. - Take a breath
Take a breath before you have a meltdown or have a go at someone. Remember that your patience levels are depleted, taking a breath may avoid the regrettable venture into “Pork Chop” behaviour. - Be understanding
Understand that everyone is probably in the same boat and that behaving like a “Pork Chop “ will not necessarily reap any rewards, rather it will perpetuate the phenomenon. - Be positive
Smile and focus on the positive, it’s infectious.
I hope you find my tips are helpful and I hope that you are surviving Pork Chop Season. With a bit of luck, if we spread the word, we could help to eliminate Pork Chop Season all together by being supportive, positive and nice to each other everyday of the year.