Equilibrium

Equilibrium is such a delicate thing. For all of us, achieving and then maintaining a comfortable balance in our lives is an ongoing challenge. Striking a balance between what we have to do with what we want to do is not always easy. Even if those things we have to do are to our liking, staying on top on them is never a foregone conclusion. They require thought, planning and often times working with others who we cannot always control. These type of activities can range from having to cut the grass and helping our children do their home work to carrying out our boss' assignments and perhaps helping take care of elderly parents. And none of this includes the challenge of trying to do each of these duties well. 

Off-hand, I cannot think of anyone who does not have at least some responsibilities to meet each day. Consequently, so many of us share the almost-daily risk of doing what we can to not lose our balance when the unexpected occurs. Such things as getting a new boss, a flat tire or even bad weather can be a threat to our equilibrium. Some of those so-called threats may seem trivial, but that does not make them any less real. In many ways, how well we contend with them defines us as a professional and a person. Presently, the Obama administration seems to have been knocked off balance due to several unexpected events. Especially in the face of an array of critics and hecklers, how well it contends with these current challenges will go a long way toward defining its quality and level of competency. 

When threats do pop up, what can one do to face them down? Obviously, part of the answer varies as it depends upon the specific circumstance. But one common strategy that rings true in any unexpected turn-of-event is open and transparent communication. While an understandable reaction may be to withdraw or pull one's cards closer to their chest, any one caught up in such times should do the opposite. Doing so helps all concerned better understand and then contend with what has happened. Just as importantly, it helps those at the heart of the situation better focus on seeking solutions in order to regain their needed balance.