The workplace stool chart

In case you are unaware, there is a chart that indicates seven different types of stools that allow you to see how healthy yours are. It's called the Bristol Stool Chart in case you want to Google it later. And it's a very important thing to have healthy stools.

How handy would it be to have a tool like that for the workplace?

Well, now you can diagnose how shitty your environment is by (a) listening to the conversations you have about work and then (b) using this simple chart. I call it the Shit-o-meter and here is how it works.

Full of Shit

This is the workplace equivalent of hell. There is no let-up and long-term stress leave is just one straw and a camel with a back issue away.

When discussing an appalling environment at work with a caring friend or colleague you will hear phrases like, "Well, that is shitful" or "Could he be any more full of shit?" forcefully expressed. The situation is so dire, that there isn't any room for anything more than horribleness. It consumes you to the point of distraction.

Just Shit

This is more like purgatory. You are likely to be feeling sick, sad, and possibly acting out.

When conversing about your workplace, people will respond with "That sounds shitty" or "Wow, that's just shit". It's still pretty severe, but there is some space around the crappy bits. Moments of focused activity and enjoyment are possible if rare.

A Bit Shit

This is like earth. There are good things happening but it's not all flowers and puppies. And if we are not careful, it could turn ugly without some attention.

Talking to others, you will hear the phrase, "That's a bit shit". Recognise the lighter tone. The crappiness is more limited and applies to specific aspects of the work. There is a greater sense of possibility and potential ways to get around or away from it.

No Shit

This is an expression you hear when you are in workplace heaven. Everything is going well. You are challenged and supported by meaningful work and great teams.

Sharing this experience with others or hearing it from others will elicit a wistful or incredulous expression of "No shiiiiiiiit". It can be hard to believe when your situation is dire that other people are having a fulfilling and joyful time at work.

So how is your workplace measuring up?

#doonethingdeep #makeworklessshit