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Shackleford
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Shackleford
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Navigating the Challenges of Working with a Difficult Boss: An Executive Coach's Perspective4/26/2024 Working with a challenging boss can be one of the most stressful and demotivating experiences in one's professional life.
As an executive coach, I've witnessed countless individuals struggle to maintain their productivity, motivation, and well-being when faced with a difficult manager. In fact, a study by Life Meets Work found that 56% of American workers claim their boss is mildly or highly toxic, while another study by the American Psychological Association revealed that 75% of Americans say their boss is the most stressful part of their workday. A recent study by Gallup found that one in two employees have left a job "to get away from their manager at some point in their career." Surprisingly, though, another study found that employees end up working longer (two years, on average) for toxic bosses than nontoxic bosses. The reasons for staying in a job with a difficult boss are numerous. Some of the most common reasons include a lack of energy to look for a new job, enjoying the job itself or the colleagues, needing the salary, believing there aren't any better opportunities, not wanting to lose benefits, feeling too invested to start over, and hoping that things might improve. Many of these reasons can be attributed to basic human psychological dynamics. People enduring high-stress situations often suffer from emotional exhaustion, robbing them of the energy needed to search for a new situation. Loss aversion is another psychological process that makes it hard to give up something you have, such as salary, status, stability, seniority, and social connections. So, how can you effectively navigate the challenges of working with a difficult boss? Here are some key strategies to help you:
It's important to remember that while you cannot control your boss's behaviour, you can control your own response and take proactive steps to improve your work life. Although staying put may seem more secure than leaving, it actually comes with many risks. Studies have shown that people with toxic bosses are more susceptible to chronic stress, depression, anxiety, and even physical health problems like heart attacks. If you do decide to quit, it's crucial to do so professionally and gracefully. Line up your next move, give proper notice, create a transition timeline, and be prepared to leave early if necessary. Resist the urge to bad mouth your boss during potential job interviews or after landing a new job, as this can reflect poorly on you. In conclusion, working with a difficult boss is a common challenge that requires a strategic and proactive approach. By understanding the dynamics at play, focusing on what you can control, and prioritising your well-being, you can navigate this challenging situation and continue to grow in your career. Are you struggling to navigate a challenging relationship with your boss? As an executive coach, I'm here to help you develop the strategies and skills needed to thrive in your career. Contact me today to learn more about how executive coaching can support your professional growth and well-being. Acknowledgment: "How to Work with a Bad Boss" - Harvard Business Review Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
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