Survive a Bad Boss and Toxic Workplace

It’s like Mean Girls, but in a professional setting.

Your boss is a nightmare, and the work culture is terrible, no one can understand what you are going through,

Unfortunately, just like you couldn’t drop out of high school, you have to stick it out at your job in order to pay the bills. There’s a silver lining of course, you can always try to find another job.

The level of success you have in your job search depends a lot on external factors such as the economy, booming technologies, your skillset, level of interview preparation and majorly – luck.

If you have been trying to leave a toxic boss, or work environment, but are not getting the opportunities to interview anywhere, my advice to you is to not quit on a whim, but only after weighing the pros and cons of your financial condition and future plans. I understand that it is hard to go through this stress every day, that it is almost physically painful to sit through another day of abuse. But we will find a way to cope and to escape to greener. pastures.

Here are some tips to help you get through the next few weeks while you seek out a new job.

Cry – if you have to, go for it. Make sure you are alone, or in the presence of someone you trust. Do your best not to cry in front of your boss or coworkers. It’s not always true, but it’s prudent to not show vulnerability at the workplace. Head for the bathroom when you need to, or if you are working from home, turn off your camera and microphone to take a few moments to compose yourself.

Take days off – you deserve rest and respite from constant criticism and harsh words at work. Take the PTO that is available to you, get the doctor’s notes you need for your mental and physical health. Do not be afraid to take the downtime you need. If they are going to fire you for taking the leaves that are rightfully yours, then so be it. I have faith you will find a better job soon.

Higher Boss and HR – talking about the work culture or your supervisor’s behavior with their boss or HR may or may not be a good idea. If this behaviour and attitude is not the norm in your organization and you know for a fact that it’s just your supervisor or your department that’s the problem, go ahead and talk to your boss about it.

Be Kind – Don’t be mean because someone was mean to you. It’s easier said than done, I know. When someone yells at you or tells you harsh things, you get rattled and upset. It is not unusual to lash out at the next person who talks to you. Try not to do that. Separate the harsh words coming your way from the person who said it. Treat them with kindness too. Do not stoop to their level, not because you are weak, but because you are preserving your integrity and humanity. Preserve your niceness, because you are a good person who your loved ones value. No job or boss should change the characteristics that make you you.

Believe in yourself: The job market is tough right now. People are hiring less and there are many candidates vying for the open positions. A job rejection letter does not mean you are incapable. Have faith in yourself and keep applying. Something will definitely work out.

Take a Detour – If it is hard to get a job in the field you are currently in, consider upskilling yourself. Go back to school part time or take a study break if you have enough savings and no other liabilities. If not, try to find an internship in the field you enjoy. Once you get your foot in through the door and realise not all bosses are as terrible as your own, you will gain more confidence.

It’s hard out there, I know. But this internet stranger believes in you, and has faith in all that you want to be. Hold on to yourself, it will get better very very soon.

Here is a list of a few posts to help you cope further. Click on the links below to read more.

1. Dealing with hard times
2. Unfair…
3. Forget 🙂
4. Blemish
5. Living

Sending you hugs, love and light.

Your very own,

Ninji.