Challenges in the Workplace

The Envision Speakers Series brings like-minded people together to discuss issues that impact our daily lives. Although the primary focus is to learn how people in local communities around the world are making an impact, each conversation is unique and authentic. I designed these conversations so that speakers, coaches, industry professionals, and people of impact can learn from each other, inspire one another, and create pathways that result in change. These conversations address both personal and professional concerns that effect all of us – the only way we can make change happen is to make it happen together.

Toxic Environments

On this episode of the Envision Speakers Series, John Neral , Angel Diaz, M.A., PCC , and Dr. LaTonya Jackson, CPC, ELI-MP join me in conversation – three professionals who understand how workplace toxicity impacts how we live and work.

Watch the full episode here.

Envision Speakers Series - Understanding Workplace Toxicity - YouTube

Definition

How should we define workplace toxicity?

According to John Neral, a toxic workplace can be described as stressors or influencers within an organization that hinder career progression. These stressors may include ineffective supervisor feedback or unequal opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

Dr. LaTonya Jackson emphasized how toxic individuals can create teams that lead to shaping a toxic culture. Factors that impair personal and professional growth include supervisor-employee and peer interactions.

Angel Diaz discussed how micromanagement, lack of trust, and insecure leadership create toxic work environments. On the flip side, building trust fosters healthier organizations.

Creating Healthy Workplaces

What can leaders do?

Dr. LaTonya Jackson stated that organizational change starts with oneself. Control, competence, and creating a calm environment begins from within. Further, using an “Evidence Journal”, a tool for reflecting on daily experiences, both positive and negative, to helps individuals gain clarity to one’s responses to situations and circumstances.

John Neral added that evidence-based statements are effective when addressing workplace toxicity. By clarifying their experiences, leaders can foster intentional conversations that can lead to growth and positive change.

Do Words Matter?

Are the terms "non-toxic" and "healthy" explain the same thing?

Our speakers agreed that both are useful in creating an idealistic, positive work atmosphere. They stressed the dynamism of human beings and their capacity for change, making the transformation of toxic environments entirely plausible.

Is workplace toxicity rooted in organizational culture, communication dynamics, or feedback processes? Dr. Jackson stated that leadership transparency was a needed ingredient to create thoughtful communication in order to avoid unnecessary negativity.

Further, John Neral continued to emphasize the need to use evidence-based statements when addressing toxicity, advocating for intentional and constructive dialogue.

Finally, Angel Diaz emphasized personal responsibility. He highlighted the power of teamwork when cultivating a healthy micro-culture within the larger organizational context. Drawing from a real-world example, he illustrated how a team can establish norms, like using a respectful tone, to foster a positive working environment.

Situation-Behavior-Impact

John Nell introduced the SBI (Situation-Behavior-Impact) framework for giving effective feedback and promoting a supportive and non-defensive environment. Dr. LaTonya Jackson encouraged leaders to have a critical friend who can provide honest feedback for personal growth. Angel Diaz emphasized the importance of self-awareness, urging leaders to identify their strengths and motivations to avoid contributing to workplace toxicity.

As we conclude another thought-provoking episode of The Envision Speaker Series, we leave you with valuable insights and actionable strategies to foster positive change in your workplace. Join us next time as we continue to explore topics that empower individuals and organizations on their journey to success. Stay tuned, stay inspired, and lead with purpose!

Envision Speakers Series - Exploring the Depths of Health and Happiness

January 2024 Event

Title: Beyond the Surface: Exploring the Depths of Health and Happiness 2024

Stage: Virtual

Date: January 27, 2024

Time: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm EST

In January 2024, I will begin the evolution of the Envision Speakers Series – bringing multiple conversations to the virtual (and soon on-site) table to solve problems directly impacting the world.

Watch the Live Stream: https://youtube.com/live/OXxFZhtb9iQ?feature=share ?

Additionally, Michelle Ann Collins, who found her purpose in life after the death of her husband, will discuss the power of emotional health through healing after the death of a loved one. Her husband died by suicide. Since that time, Michelle learned to heal, handle her post-traumatic stress, and then write two books on the process and how to help others who are going through their own grief-recovery journey. Michelle will share how you, too, can transform yourself from hurt to healing.

More from Keith J McNally . . .

Suicide Survivor

As a two-time suicide attempt survivor, I recognize the importance of human connection. When I wanted to die by suicide, I had no one to turn to, to trust in, or tell my story to. This is a lonely experience . . . an experience no one should go through. My mission is to have the conversations . . . and to change the conversation . . . so we are connected and feel validated for our own feelings.

Your Story Matters

If you have made the attempt to end your life, let’s talk. I would like the opportunity to share your story with the world. If you have been left in the wake of someone who has died by suicide, please share your story with me as well.

And if you are still grieving the loss of someone close to you who ended their own life, I know people who can help.

Disclaimer: If you are currently facing levels of stress in your life and are contemplating suicide at this moment, reach out to the credentialed professionals who can help.

SAMHSA & 988 Suicide Prevention Hotline

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | SAMHSA ??? ?

About the Author

As an author, podcast host, and purpose-driven/leadership coach, my goal is to help you to redefine your life, get out of your “stuck” situation, and explore your world so you can create real purpose for your life. My book, Walking the Path – A Leader’s Journey is a must-read for anyone looking to create real impact and meaning for themselves and others. I have a heart for those who find life intolerable and frustrating (even scary) because I’ve been there. My goal is to have the conversations with each of you so that you feel appreciated, valued, and secure in yourself. Talk soon!?

-????????? Dr. Keith McNally

?