3 Ways to Deal With a Toxic Boss Without Quitting

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This week's topic:

3 Ways to Deal With a Toxic Boss Without Quitting

So many of us have had the experience of working for a bad boss in a toxic work environment.

In fact it’s become so commonplace that we often end up just getting used to it.?

We end up suffering in roles hoping that if we…

-keep our head low, we’ll go unnoticed and be left alone

-wait for your boss to eventually get “figured out”, and fired or worse yet - promoted

-or stick it out and maybe eventually OUR own circumstances will change??

If you find yourself stuck with a bad boss, it's tempting to avoid conflict and let the problem fester.?

The thing is a toxic boss can have a domino effect on your career and personal life. Ignoring the issue only allows it to grow, affecting your confidence, mental health, and professional growth. It's essential to recognize that the problem lies with the boss, not your own capabilities or the industry you're in.?

While quitting or finding a new job may not always be feasible, taking action is absolutely crucial.

Here are three powerful ways to take control of the situation and even turn it to your advantage.

**Use Them as Motivation**

Instead of hoping for your bad boss to change, use the situation as motivation to explore new opportunities. Tigers don't change their stripes, and it's unlikely your toxic boss will transform into an effective leader. Staying in such an environment will only hamper your growth. I've personally experienced this and ended up developing bad habits without realizing it. Learn from this and make it your goal to be the opposite of your bad boss. Be a role model for leadership, treating your team with respect, and embracing better communication and autonomy.

**Don't Take it Personally**

It's important not to take your bad boss's behavior personally. Remember, their actions stem from their own issues, not your value as an employee. Empathize with their challenges, but don't sympathize. Understand why they act the way they do, which will help you separate their actions from your own self-worth. Like when your partner snaps at you after a rough day, their frustrations often have nothing to do with you.

**Kill Them With Kindness**

My personal favorite tactic is to kill them with kindness. Miserable people hate it when you remain positive, happy, and friendly. By staying positive, you not only maintain your own well-being, but you also create a positive reputation for yourself. When your boss is rude or gives unfair orders, respond with kindness and empathy. Focus on finding solutions rather than dwelling on negativity. It may sound challenging, but by doing so, you guard your emotions and maintain control over your attitude.

By taking action -? using your bad boss as motivation, not taking things personally, and killing them with kindness, you'll regain control over your professional path. Embrace these techniques, to make the best of a tough situation and start showing up as the leader in your own right.

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- Doug Howard PE

PS - Are you looking to level up YOUR leadership skills? Learn about the Leadership Accelerator for Engineers HERE.??

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