Is Working for a Small Family-Owned Business Less Stressful Than a Large Global Corporation?

Stress is a deeply personal experience, highly sensitive to individual triggers in our work and home environment. The intensity and nature of stress vary significantly from person to person. An environment and work challenges that are challenging and stressful for one individual might be comforting and invigorating for another. This variability is influenced by personal resilience, social support, and the nature of the work environment.

The Role of Stress in Our Lives

A certain level of stress is necessary and beneficial in our lives. It acts as a healthy stimulus, motivating us to achieve our goals and get things done. It is a driving force in our professional and personal lives, pushing us to perform at our best.

A Personal Experience: An Ambulance Paramedic's Perspective

25 years ago, I had an enlightening conversation with an Ambulance Paramedic who had been signed off work due to stress-related symptoms. Despite the high-stress nature of his job, he wanted to return to work because the stress was caused by his personal and domestic circumstances, not his work. In his environment, he felt capable, supported, and fulfilled. He had a degree of autonomy, which was a major stress reliever for him.

Understanding Stress Triggers and Relievers

During our conversation, we discussed what made us comfortable or uncomfortable at work. The main trigger of unhealthy stress, as we found, is being presented with tasks that we do not have the time or resources to handle properly. The paramedic could not imagine working in a corporate management environment where his actions and decisions were under constant scrutiny and where he had to meet corporate reporting deadlines over which he had little control. Similarly, as a corporate worker, I could not envisage the uncertainties and uncontrollable situations faced by my paramedic friend where life and death situations arose unpredictably.

Main Stress Relievers

The main stress relievers are having good colleagues and friends to turn to for support and sympathy. Having a supportive environment, good relationships, and a clear understanding of the dynamics of the workplace are essential to mitigating stress. Positive social connections and a positive work atmosphere can significantly reduce the impact of stress.

Comparing Small Family-Owned Businesses and Large Corporations

While working in an unsympathetic, target-driven, results-oriented organization is likely to be highly stressful, working in a small family-owned business also has its challenges. These challenges include immediate profit and cash flow constraints, fewer resources, and a conservative business culture that may be resistant to change. These factors can create significant stress for the employees.

Personal Experience: My Wife’s Veterinary Practice

My wife, a senior partner in a veterinary practice with 12 staff members, had to handle numerous unexpected situations over the years. She often had to work late to cover calls and meet filing deadlines. However, these challenges were outweighed by the professional rewards she received. The supportive and fulfilling work culture of the practice ensured that despite the stress, she remained dedicated and motivated.

Important Questions to Ask

Before making a decision about which type of work environment suits you best, consider these critical questions:

What is the business culture like, and does it suit my personality? Am I a 'people' person or a 'task' person? What is the staff turnover rate, and who can I turn to for support and personal development advice? What career opportunities does the job bring? What would keep me awake at night? Are these concerns related to work or personal life?

Each work environment comes with its set of stressors and rewards. It is crucial to identify what you need in a work setting to ensure a healthy and satisfying professional life.