How to break the cycle of getting in a Toxic work environment?

[Anonymous]

This has been an on going pattern for the past 12 years. I've learned to speak up and defend myself. Time and time again I seem to be in a Toxic work environment. Where the manager usury does not like me for whatever reason, some nasty 2-faced coworkers. I am an Empath and have strong intuition and see right through others. I'm kind and want what's best for all. Yet, it's always others who have an issue with me voicing the truth or seeing past their fake Ness. Help?

[Oliverlogan263]

Here are some suggestions to help break the cycle of ending up in toxic work environments:

- Really pay attention to red flags in the interview process. Try to get a feel for company culture and office dynamics. Ask former employees on LinkedIn if possible.

- Trust your gut instincts - if something feels off about a manager or you sense drama around coworkers, that's likely a sign to keep looking.

- Learn to set clear boundaries early on. State clearly the type of work environment and treatment you expect. Don't try to be a people pleaser.

- Be selective about the type of roles/industries you apply to as sometend to attract more toxic personalities than others.

- Have your resume and LinkedIn profile polished so you can jump ship quickly if needed rather than feeling stuck.

- Consider roles with less direct reports or office politics where you call the shots more as an individual contributor.

- Look for values-aligned companies with transparent leadership and positive Glassdoor reviews. Strong culture is key.

- Don't be afraid to negotiate a probation period for the first month so you have an easy out if needed.

Trust your instincts - you know what works best for you. May take some trial and error still but you've got this sis!

[Levin]

What do you think is attracting you to those environments? You'd have thought through learning your lessons and learning boundaries you would hopefully find better workplaces?

Office environments (presuming you are in one) are hard for empaths. I know because by Friday I usually want to rage at my work colleagues. Usually theirr seemingly harmless comments start sticking to me by the end of the work. I'm an introvert and need at least one day a week alone to recoup and regenerate. Fortunately my office environment is pretty reasonable. It's the small mindedness that bothers me.

[Asker]

Well this last opportunity I had not choice, I was unemployed after a lay off. My savings was running out. I had ro accept the offer. The thing is its an all Women company 🤯 that in it self is very challenging. The other coworker who started with me is beyond Drama in a bad way, I feel threatened by her. I had to survive, it's not like I knew this would be another hot pot?

[Levin]

Well, I know with regard to working with women. I work with women. And the female only office next door has severe problems with bitchiness. A number of staff are currently on sicknote with 'stress'.

Is there anything practical you can do to improve your situation? Would your empathy not be best suited to another career? I know it ain't so easy, but perhaps this situation is calling for the best of you.