When Did We Start Getting Scared of Bosses?

We've all been there: it's a regular workday and your boss strolls into the office - only this time, instead of feeling comforted or motivated by their presence, you feel an icy chill run down your spine. It's not hard to imagine why any reasonable person would be scared of their boss – after all, bosses usually have authority over us in the workplace. But when did we start dreading interactions with our superiors? Have things gotten so bad that employees must now walk on eggshells to get through the day??

Let's take a look at how this fear has become far too commonplace in today's offices.

1. We work with people who are afraid to ask for a raise. They are the same people who are afraid to speak up and offer their ideas, and afraid to make any kind of move that might rock the boat. When did this happen? Were there mass brainwashings that we missed? It's a mystery for the ages. But one thing's for sure: we're all in the same boat.
2. We work with people who pretend they are OK when the worst candidates get the job. It leaves those of us who actually know what we’re doing to suffer under their incompetent leadership. We've finally realized that we're worth more than being treated like dirt just to collect a paycheck.
3. We work extra hours and do jobs which are not ours. We've all been there. Stuck in the office way past quitting time, doing tasks that are definitely not in our job description. But hey, what else are we supposed to do? Sit around twiddling our thumbs and counting ceiling tiles? No thank you. So, we get to work.
4. Time to take back your own power. We spend too much time cowering in fear of our bosses, acting like they hold all the cards. They may sign our paychecks and have some control over our schedules, but we are the ones who ultimately decide how we show up at work and what kind of energy we bring to the table. Don't be scared to speak up, ask for what you want, and set boundaries.?

Ultimately, the fear we have of our bosses should be a thing of the past. It's important to remain confident in our abilities and not just settle for what is put in front of us. When we take a risk and are passionate about the work we do, that can go a long way in diffusing a potentially awkward interaction with our boss. We should stop living our lives according to what others expect from us – instead, find the career path that you feel inspired by and don't be afraid to stand up for yourself. So go and be brave. And remember, each time you conquer your fear of your boss, you steal back a bit of your own power.

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