How can you effectively deal with a difficult boss?

It's important to realize that each manager (similar to us as individuals) has a given style and preferences. Aim to extend the bridge of collaboration across your styles and preferences. For some that may mean adjusting your own, for others your manager's and for the rest meeting half-way. Be stubborn on the outcome of success you want to achieve and flexible on the how.

This one is hard! If you don′t have a supporting and inspiring leader who advocate for you and have authentic interest on your growth, it can be draining. However, focus on what would help you to deliver and go next in your career. Don′t ever burn your bridges! - Seek clarification on your roles, responsibilities, and the metrics by which your performance is judged. This helps ensure you're meeting or exceeding these expectations. - Keep track on your projects, status and successes. Avoid getting caught up in office politics - Independent of your boss's attitude, set personal performance goals. Strive to achieve these goals to enhance your skills and value to the company, which can also boost your confidence and job satisfaction.

What I’m about to tell you can not only change how you engage with a difficult boss, but anyone difficult. It’s called the “don’t know mind.” As a therapist, you’re trained to be curious all the time. Not just once in one meeting. Every meeting. But this carried over when dealing with difficult behaviors from others. Here’s how it works: ? anytime you’re hit with difficult behavior, ask yourself “what else is going on in this persons life?” ? remain curious with harsh statements and moments with your boss. ? check in when things get tough: “Hey, I know you said X and I want to clarify further what you meant.” Be curious. When you act as if you don’t know, you present as open, curious, warm, and empathetic. Hope it helps you out.

When my kids were young I taught them to not write their own story. For example, with the aggressive driver who cut us off, we imagined all the possible things that could be going on with them. Getting to hospital for a loved one that was in an accident, getting to gas station or home because they have diarrhea, etc. then add on your step. With in person interactions, be curious and ask questions.