How to Cope with a Toxic Workplace
If going to work makes you feel physically sick, then you are probably working in a toxic environment. Whatever your profession, it's critical to surround yourself with positive people and a positive environment that encourages professional development. It is not easy to deal with the anxiety that comes with working in a toxic workplace, but it is quite feasible. But, short of quitting your job and looking for another (which may be the best option in some cases), there are some ways to reduce the stress that comes with working in a toxic environment.
Ask For Your Company’s Official Response
Seasoned professionals agree that a company’s employees’ first step when dealing with a toxic workplace is to reach out to their immediate supervisor and inform them of the realities on the ground. It’s believed that this is the most ideal method to make.
Say you’re in a toxic workplace. If so, you can tell your team leader or shift manager your concerns the soonest. In fact, it’s best to have everything in writing.
Your company can provide a response to your concerns in multiple ways. For one, they can work with professionals like aspire-leadership.co.uk and others to provide professional training to you and your teammates. Other intervention methods include team building sessions, reshuffling of team assignments and compositions, and so on.
Find the Positive
If it feels like your workplace is engulfed in a never-ending cycle of negativity, you must remind yourself of the aspects of your job that you appreciate and look for the positive as much as possible. Self-reflect and ask yourself what part of your job inspires you the most. While it's crucial to maintain a positive attitude, don't go overboard and act as if nothing is wrong. Instead, concentrate on your responsibilities and treat everyone with respect and politeness.
Point out by your behaviour that diversity and inclusion are vital elements of a healthy workplace environment. Even if it appears like everyone you work with is toxic in some way, chances are that there are at least a few others who share your feelings. Depend on each other and commiserate once you've established that you're on the same page. A positive work mantra is “work hard, be nice!”.
Don't hesitate to share positive insights with like-minded colleagues at work. This is to foster a better workplace culture in your office.
In any situation, find the humour. Laughing at yourself in any scenario can make you feel better. Outside of the office, you can share anecdotes with a friend to remind yourself that you're not alone. Build a support group outside of work that you can go to when things at work get too much for you. While you might not feel comfortable ranting to your co-workers, having a support group outside of work allows you to communicate your feelings and concerns.
Find Ways to Relax
When you're working in a toxic workplace, you need to do everything you can to be optimistic and productive. This is possible by giving yourself a moment to wind down from all of the challenges and negativities of a highly toxic workplace. It's critical to find ways to unwind after a demanding and exhausting day at work. Rather than focusing on the events of the day, find activities that will divert your attention away from work, such as going to the gym or taking a dance class, journaling your thoughts, ideas, and dreams, reading, listening to music, or working on a few DIY projects. You can reach out to a professional to help you deal with the stress of everyday work through the benefits of meaningful pastimes.
Leave it Behind
While venting can make you feel better, try to keep any work-related talk to a minimum once you've returned home. Workplace difficulties should be left at work. This will help you to maintain a career-life balance so that a toxic workplace does not impact other areas of your life. Take a lunch break every day, avoid taking work home, set clear expectations, maintain friendships outside of work, and do not divulge too many personal details at work.
Also, stay away from office gossip as this can lead to toxicity in the workplace. Set boundaries with individuals around you so that they know they won't get much more than a neutral reaction if they try to start a nasty conversation with you. Avoiding office gossip might help you stay away from negativity and concentrate on your work.
Make a Change
Unstable job markets and financial obligations are real issues but if the toxic workplace becomes too much to handle, consider changing departments or leaving the job. Look for positions that excite you and allow you to grow personally and professionally.
Remember that you are not a reflection of your environment. Reclaim your individuality and stay motivated. Even while surrounded by toxicity, it is crucial to remember your self-worth and distinguish between negativity and the truth of who you are.
Conclusion
A toxic workplace brings forth multiple negative impacts to one’s wellbeing. Nonetheless, if you’re stuck in such a problematic situation, keep in mind that all isn’t lost. You can still make the most out of your situation. Keep in mind the tips above for guidance. All the best.
