How to survive in a toxic workplace by Anna Eliatamby

Unfortunately, we must think of surviving a toxic workplace. It is reality for some. To survive is to continue to exist despite the difficulty. How can we do this?

Remember the toxicity existed before you joined the organisation. It has nothing to do with who you are or your talents and skills.

How to Survive a Toxic Workplace

Then assess what or who is toxic, and what they do to make work life awful. Think of the actions that led you to conclude that toxicity is present. What is the impact on you of these behaviours? Impact is not always dependent on the severity and intensity of the action. Two minor negative comments a day can have the same effect as being shouted at.

Second, how do you respond -loudly or quietly? Taking assertive action uses energy, as does staying silent and suffering. What is the cost in terms of your emotional wellbeing? Would you like to change or is it best to continue as is?

You could resign and leave. If so, be very sure that you part on your own terms and that you don’t go to another toxic place.

If you can change, think about whether you want to use the internal justice system or talk to a senior manager. Remember, resolution is unlikely to be immediate. Sometimes, just being more assertive is enough, especially if you persist. If you consider it is best to keep to your current approach, then look after yourself.

Gather your strengths

Working in toxicity can make us forget our assets. Especially when someone bullies or harasses us. Take some time to write a list of your valuable and strong qualities. Look at it each morning and think of how you can use them that day.

Remind yourself that you have more power than you think. Awful circumstances can make us feel insignificant and we can, without knowing it, give in. How can you use your strength more even if the very senior are the toxic people?

‘No can make you feel inferior without your consent.’

Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady

Living well

Awfulness depletes. Toxicity can make us forget all our healthy living habits and even revert to unhealthy ones. Because of the tremendous amount of pressure on our thinking and emotions caused by stress.

Look at how you are living. How many healthy habits are you using to eat well, stay hydrated, and sleep? How much are you looking after your physical and mental health? Your

personal relationships- how are you letting them support you? And your work persona? What is positive?

Where do you need to make changes? Develop a plan, ensure you introduce change slowly and surely with plenty of reminders to help you be the new you and not revert.

Toxicity depletes. We can control and manage how much it affects us.

Anna Eliatamby, clinical psychologist, workplace well-being expert and editor: Healthy Leadership and Organisations: Beyond The Shadow Side. £14.99.