What is a toxic workplace 

You may have heard the term “toxic” thrown around a lot nowadays – there’s talk of toxic masculinity, toxic negativity, toxic positivity, toxic energy, toxic relationships and yes, toxic workplaces.

While everyone has their own understanding of it, a toxic workplace is an organisation that has high levels of interpersonal conflicts to the point that these conflicts are harmful to persons employed there and or hinders productivity.

What are the signs of a toxic workplace?  

Toxic work environments can occur in large organisations with winding bureaucracies as well as with small companies with short chains of command.  

Organisational culture plays a huge role in how toxicity is manifested and may differ across organizations and industries.  However, there are a few commonalities found in most toxic workplaces 

1. Poor internal communication
2. Gossip and internal politics.
3. High absenteeism / presenteeism and turnover rates.
4. Low worker morale.
5. Unclear reporting structure and unclear scope of work.
6. Chronic stress 
7. Repetition, duplication of work processes – caused by departments working in Silos or having disorganized structures.
8. Unclear or biased  metrics especially those concerning performance review.
9. Inconsistent and unclear feedback.
10. Micromanaging.
11. Poor work design – some staff members are overloaded while some are loafing.
12. Leadership with poor interpersonal skills and low emotional intelligence.

Why fix it?

Firstly, you deserve a fascinating life. Periodt.

Toxic work environments can seriously impact your physical, mental, emotional and psychological health.  Prolonged exposure to this kind of environment can cause cardiovascular disease, Fibromyalgia, stomach and chest pains and many others.  It can also lead to anxiety, depression, social isolation and low quality of life.

Mental health is something I believe we should all take seriously listen to this episode of the 5 years to 40 podcasts for more information about mental health at work.

Big Sister Saturday – Letting Go: A Path to Personal Growth – 5 Years To 40

SummaryIn this episode of the 5 Years to 40 podcast, Annisha Jones shares her insights on the importance of letting go of past attachments, expectations, and toxic relationships to create space for personal growth and joy. She emphasizes the necessity of acknowledging feelings, practicing gratitude, and setting boundaries as essential strategies for navigating life's challenges. The conversation encourages listeners to embrace change and invest in their personal development while fostering a supportive community.

1. Big Sister Saturday – Letting Go: A Path to Personal Growth 32:29
2. Big Sister Saturday – 6 THINGS I LEARNED ABOUT STAYING FOCUSED 27:24
3. Big Sister Saturday: 6 things to do to sky rocket your career in your 20's 18:58
4. For the Young ones – Saturday Special: The Power of Personal Accountability: 6 things I know for sure 31:30
5. I hosted an Accountability Group for 12 weeks : Here's What I Learned! 16:18

Work environments that are toxic adversely affect the company’s productivity and profitability.  These places tend to have higher reports of absenteeism (people calling out sick frequently) and debatably worst than that is presenteeism ( people coming to work but not being very productive).

You may also find workers have low job satisfaction, low self-esteem, reduced creative potential and suffer from apathy towards their job.  

Think about it, you’re spending at least 8 hours –  which is the majority of your day at work.    You deserve to be in an environment that is as pleasant and supportive as possible.

Here are some ideas that can help

5 ways to survive a toxic workplace

1. Stay away from the drama. 

Yes, you can have a venting buddy at work – but Hunny,  do not give in to the urge to make side remarks (not too many) or complain about anything at work.

The good book says a still tongue keeps a wise head. I’ve found that talking and joining the gossip mill may feel good at the moment but invariably, it ends badly.  

The people you are venting to will take what you say and twist it to their benefit or misrepresent you to others.  That’s a major way to kill your career.  Secondly, gossiping will get you sucked into all that negative energy.  

That’s not fascinating at all. 

2. Leave work at work.  

Your family and friends love you and they deserve your full attention.   I know you can share snippets about stuff from work but it shouldn’t be the main topic and it certainly shouldn’t consume all of your conversations.  

Remember, you combine with what you notice so the more you rehash hard times and your annoying boss and your coworker who is constantly stirring up trouble – will be the more you notice and experience it. 

It’s a vicious cycle and we are just not about that life.

3. Clear up your space. 

If you find yourself getting anxious at the thought of pulling into the parking lot of your job.  The dread might be a little less knowing you’re going to sit at a desk, cubicle, corner office that’s filled with things that make you happy. 

Posh up your spot, get framed powerful quotes, cute planners, pictures, plants or even a cute coffee mug and water container to help make your space feel happier. 

If you’re on a budget and can’t afford those things, no worries.  Just make sure your area is clean and organized as much as possible.  This will help you to feel empowered, especially when that pushy coworker comes around and you know exactly where to find the file she needs.

4. Stay focused.  

Drama is definitely a distraction so make extra efforts to stay focused. Get a routine that works for you.

If you work in a fast-paced environment make sure to have a to-do list.  Write down what you need to get done.  This will help you to keep track of your tasks and help you to feel accomplished when you get to tick off tasks you’ve completed.

Set up your day in time blocks, unless urgent, set aside specific times to do routine tasks like responding to email etc.

Also, keep track of decisions that impact you and your scope of work.  This will come in handy if you need to have performance-related conversations  

5. Create an exit plan.  

This should be a no brainer. It’s the most obvious move to improve a toxic workplace, however it’s usually the very last option we use.

This first step requires a mindset shift to start looking at your present job as a powerful training opportunity.   However horrid, you are basically gaining experience for your next job. 

I started a ‘things I’ll do better’ file on my cellphone.  Instead of getting upset at situations that are poorly handled, I use them as case studies for the future.

Trust me, the stuff that’s driving you nuts right now will be the things that will be included in the  “successfully navigated” line on your CV.  

Speaking of which, update your CV – Do it now don’t wait until there’s a job you’re interested in.  Check out youtube videos for help if you’re having trouble getting started.

Most importantly – network.  If you work in a toxic environment, it’s highly likely your boss is toxic.  Which means it is highly unlikely that they will be willing to give you a good recommendation.

There are lots of growth-oriented individuals that you know, reach out to people in your industry with who you have a good rapport.  Let them know you’re considering changing jobs or expanding your career.  

You can also join groups and clubs like Toastmasters international where you can learn leadership skills and meet with professionals who may have information about job opportunities.

Bonus – Self-Care 

It’s a jungle out there.  Getting up and going to work with hostile, negative people is no easy feat, that’s why it’s super important to take care of yourself.  

Develop and stick to a routine that includes things like exercise, journaling,  prayer and meditation, resting and hydration.  Have a trusted group of friends who support you and appreciate you for who you are and spend time nurturing your gifts and talents.

You are your most important asset. Your job is important,  but so are you.

You can change jobs. But you, my fiver friend, You’re irreplaceable.  

Keep doing the most. 

THIS WEEK’S FUN ACTIVITY

We overcome overwhelm with action.

Try writing a recommendation letter for yourself. How do you see yourself?  It’s a great confidence booster and handy in case one of your references agrees to do your letter of recommendation but wants you to send them a  draft.