What do you do if your boss's standards are too high to meet?

1 Assess Reality

Begin by taking a step back and objectively assessing your boss's standards. Are they truly unattainable, or do they simply require a stretch beyond your current capabilities? It's important to distinguish between high expectations that motivate growth and those that are fundamentally unrealistic. Consider your own strengths and weaknesses, as well as the resources available to you. If there's a genuine mismatch between what's being asked and what's possible, acknowledging this is the first step towards finding a solution.

3 Skill Enhancement

If the gap between your boss's standards and your current abilities is a matter of skill, consider investing in professional development. Whether it's taking courses, seeking mentorship, or dedicating time to practice, enhancing your capabilities can help you rise to the challenge. This proactive approach shows your commitment to your role and can make high standards more attainable over time.

4 Set Boundaries

While striving to meet high standards, it's crucial to set healthy boundaries. Know your limits and communicate them effectively. Overworking yourself will not only harm your health but also the quality of your work. Establishing boundaries helps prevent burnout and ensures that you can consistently perform at your best, which is ultimately in your and your employer's best interests.

5 Seek Support

You don't have to face high expectations alone. Seek support from colleagues, mentors, or a professional network. They can offer advice, share their own experiences, and provide emotional support. Sometimes, just knowing others have faced similar challenges and overcome them can be incredibly empowering.

6 Reflect & Decide

Finally, take time to reflect on your situation. If despite your best efforts, the standards set by your boss remain unattainable without compromising your well-being, it may be time to consider if the job is the right fit for you. Your career should be a source of growth and satisfaction, not constant stress and frustration. Making a change can be daunting, but it might also lead to new opportunities that better align with your abilities and aspirations.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?