How much stress is created in the Family Business?

The recent episode regarding the JetBlue flight attendant that took a rather unique way to exit the organization, make a statement, and gain notoriety raises questions that each family business should consider. If one believes the Flight attendant’s actions truly occurred as a result of his inability to handle “stress”, what is the alternative. Some stress can be debilitating and individuals respond differently.

Part of the answer needs to lie within the individual. They need to have a level of self-awareness so as not to react inappropriately. Respond don’t react. As Families in Business it is important to help all family members and employees to understand themselves. They after all represent the family and the business. Inappropriate reactions do not make good press and are not healthy.

Another part of the answer lies within the structure of the organization. Are the processes, procedures, workflow, reporting dynamics, or structures creating a toxic environment? Leadership needs to look in the mirror and honestly explore their contribution to the crisis.

It is important to note that some stress can actually be healthy and encourage higher performance levels and more alert behavior.

How much stress are we creating in our family, or in our business, or for our employees?

How are we helping our family members gain higher levels of self-awareness?

What are we doing to provide proper and acceptable ways of dealing with stress?

The JetBlue flight attendant may become a folk hero, but it is not the type press coverage a Family Business should desire.