Volume 1 Issue 3 October 2008 In This Issue: Message from Marlene How to Identify DRAMA Stop Workplace Drama and Increase Productivity

I adopted the word drama to use in my speaking and training materials after learning about the Karpman Drama Triangle, 10 years ago. That tool literally helped me to see dysfunctional beliefs and patterns that allowed me to make the shift from believing I had no choices to seeing myself as the creator of my own destiny. (Sign up for an overview of the Karpman Triangle by clicking here to get the free mini-lesson)

I have tweaked this model to use in my training and consulting which has enabled me to not only help others create the business or the life they want, it makes me accountable to the same standards. I have often said that no one lives a “drama free” life, but using this tool will make you a better person so you can easily jump off the triangle quicker.

The reason I named this ezine “The Drama Stops Here” is that I want to encourage you, no matter what your situation in life, to adopt the attitude that the drama stops with you!

In the next section I want to explore with you in depth what drama is, how it manifests and the danger it poses to your performance, productivity and personal power.

Then I invite you to go to the blog to read “Get in the Shade or Go Home” where I confess my own drama episode and ask for your feedback…What is your drama, and where would you be without it?

How To Identify DRAMA?

Drama is working so hard that you are cranky and exhausted. This kind of drama is the leak in your boat. You can row all you want but in the end if you have a leak in your boat you are going to be exhausted. Rowing harder doesn’t stop the leak, and even if you do get to the island, you are too tired to celebrate your success. Drama on the journey means arriving won’t be much better.

Drama is the bickering with your team members. Although you are all in the same boat instead of rowing together you hit each other over the head with your oars trying to prove who is right and who is wrong.

Drama is justifying your lackluster performance. You didn’t reach your sales goals but instead of getting feedback or working smarter, you spend time explaining your situation. You blame the boat maker for making a shoddy boat. You remind others that you only used two oars while everyone else had a motor. The justifying doesn’t help your sales goals the next month either and now you’ve wasted time explaining versus selling.

Drama can manifest as unconscious complaining. You are in the boat, but you aren’t enjoying the journey. It’s too hot, too cold, the seat is uncomfortable or you are tired.

Stop Workplace Drama and Increase Productivity

Drama hampers productivity, performance and personal power.
Think about the time people spend complaining. If  every day one hour is spent complaining, that is 5 hours per week, 20 hours per month and 60 hours per quarter. What could you do with 60 man hours? 

Drama Makes You Sick
Did you know (according to the American Journal of Cardiology) recalling an angry experience for as little as 5 minutes can suppress the immune system for as much as six hours?

Drama Makes You Age
When negative emotions are present the body produces more cortisol, which often triggers increased adrenaline production. These chemical changes accelerate the aging process.

Register Here

You got the first copy of “The Drama Stops Here” because you have a relationship with Marlene Chism. If you want to continue to receive this ezine, go here to register.

If you have friends or business associates who would appreciate this information, please forward this ezine and invite them to register.

Many surprises, ideas and business resources are coming your way.