How to Tell It's Time to Draw

Fashion can be an exhilarating industry to experience, from touching the finest materials to meeting extraordinary people at glamorous events.

I remember feeling thrilled being able to travel for work, staying in the trendiest 5-star hotels, and enjoying the best sushi.

But what most people don't know is that despite the fun and privilege that comes with this profession, there is also a dark truth that comes along with it.

As a fashion professional yourself, you've probably heard of it.

Worse, you might have experienced it firsthand?

Within the fashion industry are tales of untouchable bosses who rule their domains with toxicity while others -- myself included -- sadly endure it in silence.

That was before I had the courage to draw the line.

In hindsight, there were neon signs pointing to this harmful culture which I chose to initially ignore.

Here are some of the signs you need to watch out for.

Number 1 is When your boss uses threatening language.

Violent communication is not always easy to spot. It is usually used behind closed doors. It is accompanied by body language that is meant to intimidate.

If you are told that you cannot trust anyone in the workplace, or that if you have no friends there, then beware.

This language is used to make you feel alone, powerless, and paranoid.

Number 2 is the Culture of Fear

Being unable to speak up or share your ideas without worrying about the consequences is not healthy. In fashion, it stifles creativity, progress, and growth opportunities.

If you notice that nobody feels safe about questioning anything, then this is a message that's loud and clear.

An ideal workplace is where people are encouraged to speak their minds and confidently express themselves.

Number 3 is When your commitment to the job is equated to the number of holidays you give up.

Burnout and exhaustion are serious issues in the workplace.

This is why the law recognizes and provides days when people are expected to stay home.

When culture goes against this very principle, and expects you to show up on such days, it is a clear violation of your rights.

Number 4 is When you catch yourself constantly talking about how strange things are run.

The bizarre can at times be fascinating. Exchanging stories that seem unreal almost has an addictive effect. It's like the effect of horror films --- only this time, it's for real.

Ask yourself, "Why am I allowing this person to take up so much of my thoughts and energy?"

Number 5 is When you always say, "that's just how it is; I don't need to be part of it."

You may have fallen into the rationalization trap where you accept a toxic environment as the norm and think you can protect yourself forever.

Unfortunately, this is rarely the case.

When you live and breathe a destructive culture, your very own self-expression is influenced. You will find yourself either adapting or it will be a frustrating daily struggle.

Number 6 is When you rush through your meal breaks to get back before the boss does.

Breaks are meant to give us the chance to relax, recharge and refuel. If you catch yourself gobbling down your meal because your boss needs to see you back, even before your break is over, think hard.

You might be perpetuating a vicious cycle that nobody dares to break.

Number 7 is When any effort to improve processes is turned down because "things have always been run this way."

When you realize that you're in a company that refuses to hear out new ideas and explore new initiatives for the sole reason that "that's how it's always been done," then this is not the place for someone aspiring for growth opportunities.

Stagnation does not benefit anyone.

Number 8 is the Culture of gratitude.

While being grateful is an admirable trait, it should not be used as a lever when one is negotiating for better terms. What does this sound like? "You should know that there are others who are happy to do your job." Any other version that insinuates that someone else will be willing to do the work if you don't want it.

Communicating this idea is meant to make you feel powerless. It dismantles your ability to effectively bargain for what you feel you are entitled to.

Number 9 is a highly hierarchical environment that constantly reminds you of your place.

The fact that there is a hierarchy in fashion is no news. Whether you're at the top of the food chain or the bottom of it, everyone knows their place and normally, acts accordingly.

However, there are cultures where those in power make it a point to constantly remind others that they are in control.

What does this look like?

When certain tasks are always delegated to certain people -- even when others are willing and able to perform them.

Lastly, is When your maternity announcement becomes tantamount to a career death sentence, it's time to reevaluate whether this company truly values its employees.

In conclusion, paying close attention to the abovementioned signs is critical.

One might argue that some of these are inherent to the industry. Then again, it is each person's prerogative to understand what is tolerable and what is not.

Fashion may have been your dream job but if it's become your nightmare, it's probably time to draw that line.

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I'm a communication coach empowering professionals in fashion to better express themselves through advanced communication and presentation skills.

If you'd like to know more about my 1-on-1 or group coaching programs, send me a DM today.

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