Damage control. Take action. Once you’ve identified who or what the issues are that are causing the toxic experience, try addressing your concerns rationally with everyone involved or those in charge. Some situations can be resolved with a simple conversation, while others may require further action. You may even find this to help in gaining feedback about your own behavior that could be contributing to the negativity unintentionally.
Is it worth it? Choose your battles wisely. If you’ve identified the issues and have tried to resolve them and are still experiencing problems, assessing your options should be your final resolve. Knowing exactly what your personal and professional goals are will allow you to make a well-informed decision that will ultimately bring you peace and contentment, whether that means switching departments, positions or jobs. Your well-being should always be on the top of your list of priorities.
Every situation is different, but by following these steps and using your intuition as additional guidance, you can find a solution that is right for you to cut down on the negative effects of working in a toxic space. A healthy work environment can put the “extra” in the extraordinary version of you.
–monica bey
For more great tips, advice and answers to life’s burning questions by Monica Bey, go to rollingout.com/monicabey, and be sure to check out her weekly Ask Monica segment on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. on rolling out’s Facebook page.
