We all want to feel comfortable and happy at our jobs. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, we find ourselves in a toxic work environment. Here are five signs that your work environment might be toxic, and what you can do about it.
You dread going to work every day
You start to feel that waking up for work is a daunting task. Here are a few creative solutions to make work seem less daunting:
using your lunch break as an adventure;
setting aside 10 minutes each day to pursue personal hobbies;
engaging in meaningful conversations with coworkers
observing the beautiful in the environment around you
You're constantly stressed out and anxious about work
It's essential to understand the root cause of that stress and anxiety, as it can help you develop effective strategies to reduce or manage it.
Take breaks during the day,
Learn how to say no in situations where it’s needed (your under resourced, over-worked, or the volunatry task is a non-promotional task that you don't have time for),
Develeop mindful practices like meditation
These key suggestions can be helpful in combatting work-related stress and anxiety.
You don't feel like you can be yourself at work
Maybe it's not you, it's them. It can be hard to demonstrate your true colors when you have to impose restrictions on your behavior and speech. Fortunately, developing self-awareness and learning to express yourself with confidence in the office are achievable goals. Use the resources around you - from conversations with coworkers to discussions with trusted mentors - to gain insights into who you want to become and how you want others to experience you at work. We have developed an Effective Communication online course to help you have the confidence to assert yourself at work.
You're not given the opportunity to grow or advance in your career
It's no secret that your career path matters - and quite a lot at that. But when you sign up for the same old job day in, day out, you may find yourself frustrated after a few months of knowing that there doesn't seem to be any route to growth or advancement. The fact is, no matter what industry you're in, there are always opportunities waiting to be uncovered. If you want to make use of them, do some digging and look for groups or communities online where people share information about resources and courses available that could help tackle your issue head on. It may take some hard work and dedication but taking the initiative will ensure you're given the opportunities necessary for your career to take the next step.
Your health is suffering because of your job
When your job starts to take its toll on your health, it's important to recognize the red flags as soon as possible. Stress-related illnesses and emotional distress can quickly become a reality if you don't take care of yourself. Speak to human resources about changing your role, connecting with a psychologist for support, or consider leaving the job altogether. Your long-term health should always be a top priority - take the necessary steps now to ensure that your wellbeing is taken care of.
Although there are key activities you can incorporate to protect yourself from a toxic work environment, consider a new job if your health is suffering. Signs might be that you dread going to work every day, are constantly stressed out and anxious, don't feel like you can be yourself at work, or are not given the opportunity to grow or advance in your career.
Contact us if you need help navigating toxic work environments and transitioning out of the workplace.