Make 2025 the Year You Don’t Take Anyone’s Sh*t

Make 2025 the Year You Stand Up: No Job is Worth a Toxic Workplace

If you’ve ever found yourself sitting at your desk, wondering how much more you can take from a toxic boss or a bullying colleague, you’re not alone. It’s a situation no one deserves to be in, yet so many of us have been there. Sometimes, being an EA can feel like you’re the unofficial therapist, the punching bag for an executive’s frustrations, or the first stop for venting when the pressure builds up. While navigating those dynamics is part of the role, there’s a line—and no one should have to cross it.

I’ll be the first to admit, I’ve crossed that line myself. Early in my career, I faced moments I still wish I could go back and handle differently. There was one instance that still stings: I had to convince a well-known recruiter to take me on after they openly expressed concerns about clients being "uncomfortable" with me being gay. Can you imagine? Instead of calling them out on their prejudice, I quietly swallowed my pride and carried on. To this day, I wish I’d spoken up; not just for me, but for anyone else who might have been put in a similar position.

These days I have a teflon attitude but looking back, I realise I didn’t stand up for myself because I was scared—scared of rocking the boat, scared of being labeled difficult, scared of losing an opportunity. But here’s the thing: no opportunity is worth sacrificing your self-worth.

How Much is Too Much?

So, how do you know when enough is enough? Being an EA means you’re often the closest person to an executive, and yes, you’ll sometimes bear the brunt of their bad days. But there’s a huge difference between a tough day at the office and an ongoing pattern of toxicity.

Here are some red flags to watch out for:

• Constant Criticism: If no matter what you do, it’s never good enough, that’s a problem. Constructive feedback helps you grow; relentless nitpicking tears you down.
• Bullying or Hostility: Sarcastic comments, belittling, or outright aggression are unacceptable—full stop.
• Unrealistic Expectations: If your job feels like a never-ending game of catch-up with no appreciation or acknowledgment, it’s time to reassess.
• A Culture of Fear: If you’re afraid to speak up, make a mistake, or ask for help, you’re not in a healthy workplace.

When to Speak Up vs. Move On

Standing up for yourself doesn’t mean you have to burn bridges or storm out dramatically (although, let’s admit, sometimes it’s tempting!). It’s about setting boundaries and calling out unacceptable behavior.

1. Speak Up First: If you feel safe doing so, address the issue directly. Sometimes, people don’t realize the impact of their actions until it’s pointed out.
2. Document Everything: If the behavior continues, keep a record. This can be crucial if you decide to escalate the matter to HR or seek legal advice.
3. Trust Your Gut: If nothing changes—or if the environment is so toxic that you’re dreading work every day—it’s time to move on.

Remember, moving on doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means you value yourself enough to leave a situation that doesn’t serve you.

Make 2025 the Year You Don’t Take Anyone’s Sh*t

The start of a new year is a time for resolutions and fresh starts. If you’ve spent 2024 feeling undervalued, mistreated, or downright miserable at work, let 2025 be the year you say, “Enough.” Life’s too short to spend it in a place that drains you.

Stand up for yourself. Advocate for the respect you deserve. And if you’re not getting it, walk away. Because no job—not even the most high-profile EA role—is worth compromising your dignity.

If you’re ready to make a change, know that you’re not alone. Reach out, lean on your network, and remember: you are far more than what any toxic workplace could ever make you feel. Let’s make 2025 the year of respect, resilience, and standing tall. You’ve got this.