Work is an integral part of life. Some might love it, others might hate it, but everyone has got to do it –unless you are a trust fund baby, in which case, hallelujah!
While work is supposed to be challenging by nature, it is challenging to deal with when the workplace is toxic. One has to contend with doing the work, and the environment itself also takes a tremendous toll on the person.
If you are living in a toxic environment, your mental health also takes a great hit. It can cause you to suffer from stress and anxiety and even be traumatic. Hence, learning how to recognize and survive in a toxic workplace is essential. It might also merit the intervention of a Psychologist in Karachi even.
Signs that your workplace is toxic
Signs of a toxic workplace that you should watch out for include:
- Bullying
- Bad management and especially boss
- Deliberate sabotages
- Gaslighting
- Poor communication
- Not being heard
- Unfair treatment
Surviving in a toxic workplace
Boundaries are vital
A lack of proper boundaries will make things difficult even if your workplace is not toxic. You are not someone’s doormat and are not there to clean up after people. Also, stay clear of office gossip, as if you indulge in gossip, you will also catch the brunt.
Moreover, you also have to give other people space. You must also respect other people’s privacy and boundaries.
Aim for moderation
Things can get more challenging if you are working all the time, especially if the workplace is toxic. Lack of balance also has a more significant negative impact on your mental health.
Do not make your work the most important thing in your life. Hence, ensure a good work-life balance. You must also spend quality time with your loved ones so things get more manageable.
Differentiate between your friends and foes
Having friendships with your colleagues is essential because the social connection is essential. However, learning to differentiate between your friend and who is a hypocrite masquerading as your friend is important.
When you find genuine friends at your workplace, it can make things more bearable for you. You can then support each other through tough times.
Do not take everything personally
Do not take things personally. If the workplace is toxic, chances are you will encounter hurtful things. You will have to face undue critique, be bashed for something that is not your fault and have similar issues. Learn to distance yourself from such remarks, then.
Know you cannot control everything
If you start to fight for control over the circumstances and the situations, things will get more challenging for you. So, do not try to control something you have no control over. You cannot dictate the work environment, and you cannot dictate how people treat others, so why waste your effort, breath, and emotions on it?
Shift your perspective
It is also essential to have a shift in perspective on things. Take the pressure off of yourself. You are not your job; you are much more important than your work, which is a part of your life and not your life’s purpose.
Stay focused on what matters
It can be easy to be led off track by the taunts, the gossip mill, and the pressure from colleagues, but try to focus on your goals. Have tunnel vision if you need to, ignoring peripheral nuisances and simply concentrating on achieving your target.
Move upwards and onwards
Do not get hung up on people and places. If the system is not working, try looking for opportunities elsewhere. Work with a psychologist to improve your mental health and a mentor or career counselor to improve your career skills. So you can quit the toxic workplace and leave for somewhere better.
