GREENSBORO, N.C. — Millions of people are dealing with toxic work environments every day. It can be a challenging and stressful experience, especially if leaving your job isn't an immediate option.
A toxic work environment has different negativities that impact an employee’s well-being and productivity. One example is bullying, where employees are put down and intimidated to get things done or to be quiet. Other examples are excessive workload, lack of support, unfair treatment, and high stress.
It’s crucial to make self-care a priority. This means your physical health, mental well-being, and setting boundaries. Writing down situations of mistreatment is essential. Keep a record of dates, times, and details of what happened. This documentation can be important if you decide to take further action.
Building a support system is vital. Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about what you're going through. Joining a support group can also be beneficial. Engaging in activities you enjoy, practicing mindfulness, and seeking professional help if needed are crucial for maintaining mental well-being.
Networking and job searching while at your current job is important to start planning your exit strategy. Networking can be done discreetly, and online job searching can be done during breaks or after work. Remember, your well-being is paramount. If job searching becomes too overwhelming or stressful, it's okay to step back and focus on coping with the current situation.
You can continue the conversation with Blanca on her Facebook page: Blanca Cobb – Body Language Expert.