Being a good or bad employee doesn't always depend on how hard you work or what you do but it depends on how you handle being a part of the workplace. A boss is the one who sets your work path, defines your duties, and makes sure you don't exceed the limits set by them. Some bosses can be considered toxic if they are incompetent yet very demanding, unfair, and even unreasonable at times. Sometimes, when you find yourself in a situation with an unnecessarily toxic boss, leaving the company may not be an option for you. The only option you have is to remain level-headed amidst the destructive relationship. This is definitely a hard one, but know that it is not impossible. Here are some tips on how to deal with a toxic boss— professionally.
First and foremost you need to assess your situation. Know whether or not you are really dealing with a toxic boss or it’s just your own assumption. A toxic boss is a person who by their behavior and actions, is destroying your ability to do your job in an effective manner. The effect of this can be long-lasting and it can make you feel like you have been left with nothing, with no purpose or direction in life. Assessing the situation you are in also requires you to evaluate your core values. By becoming more aware of these important factors in your life, you can use them as a guide to make the best choice in any situation especially for the next step which is setting your boundaries with your toxic boss.
There are different types of boundaries including, physical, mental and emotional. Knowing what matters to you the most is an essential step in learning how to set boundaries with anyone. After knowing your core values, observe yourself in certain situations especially how you react or feel and your overall emotions. This will set as your basis whether or not your boundaries have been violated. To protect your boundaries from anyone, it is important to communicate clearly and respectfully with the people involved. It could be as simple as letting your boss know that you're not answering emails at the end of your shift. It also helps to make it clear what constitutes an emergency and not that way you will not be bothered outside working hours by unnecessary things.
Keeping a detailed record and documentation at work is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your company. It is perhaps the safest way to protect yourself against a toxic boss as it helps to track down mistakes and will serve as proof that you are producing high quality work. When you are in a toxic work environment, having all the necessary information at your fingertips will help you fight back. This can be especially helpful if you end up with legal troubles later on down the road.
Know what triggers your boss’ toxic traits and avoid it as much as possible. Limit your interactions with them, never involve yourself with office gossip and just focus on doing your best performance on the job. It is also important for you to not take your boss words personally. Easier said than done, but managing your emotions is a way of preventing yourself from getting drawn into office drama that could derail your future and professional career. Be the bigger person.
If you find yourself in a situation like this with a boss who is making your working life miserable, make sure that you're looking out for your physical and emotional well being. Know that it is okay to quit. While many people would never consider leaving a job before becoming fully comfortable with the situation, things in the workplace are bound to get worse before they get better, regardless of the actions that you take. If the stress you're experiencing due to the actions of your boss becomes unbearable, don't be afraid to take drastic measures and quit your job. It might be hard at first, but it'll likely end up being the best choice that you ever made to protect both your personal and professional life.
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