Catherine Jewell - Inspiring Keynotes

Advice for your career and work life

Going Nuts at Work

Going Nuts at Work: I am going nuts! The man in the cubicle next to me chews ice all day long. It is such a nervous habit that it goes on, non-stop eight hours a day. After six months of aggravation, I have asked my supervisor to move my desk so I can get away from this annoyance.

Career Passion™ Coach: It's great that you are taking action on this matter. You don't say if you have had a frank discussion with Mr. Ice. I suggest you calmly discuss with him his behavior and its effect on you. If that doesn't work, take care of yourself. Ear plugs or music headset might be a sound-blocking technique. Be careful about offering to move. Moving your desk may put you at a psychological disadvantage, as you will be separated from your peers.

Whatever the solution, hold your manager to his responsibility of protecting the productivity of the work environment. Discuss the real impact this is having on you and request that he solve the issue within one week's time.