*Tangles are knots in a system that serve as distractions to help reduce organizational anxiety. Tangles help alleviate anxiety in that they take up time, and allow people to be ‘busy’ which is anxiety-alleviating in itself. Unfortunately, productivity decreases until there is almost a standstill.

Tangles are caused by: unclear priorities, obscure communication and hidden elephants in the room. There is more and more paperwork, too many meetings that aren’t productive, frazzled people and analysis-paralysis. For more details on causes and symptoms, download this free article: Unraveling Tangles.

Tangles can be unraveled by anyone with the strength to call the truth and start the untangling process.

WHAT TO DO

1. Make your vision simple and clear so people know how to make decisions. Get priorities clear.

2. Create an open communication system throughout the company.

3. Examine the Elephants.

4. Examine all meetings for purpose and outcome.

5. Simplify. Question every piece of paper and every activity.

6. Think Optimal and blast Analysis-Paralysis.

Optimal is the best time to move, near the top. The right downward slope is not better and more precise; rather, it’s ego-based, ineffective, wastes time and money, and is demoralizing. For specific actions to reduce analysis-paralysis, click to download this free article: Unraveling Tangles.

The result of the untangling process is a more productive, higher-energy workplace. People need to feel that the work they do has value, makes sense and contributes to a greater good. Contact us for advice in the process or if you would like us to complete the process for you; in the meantime, take any of the steps in this paper and notice a clear difference right away.