If 2021 had a defining narrative, it would certainly revolve around the Great Resignation. For those unaware, this term refers to the mass departure of employees from their jobs, driven by a collective exhaustion with unmanageable work situations. When we think of toxicity, our minds often drift to dysfunctional romantic relationships or unsupportive friends. However, it’s crucial to recognize that the workplace can be equally as damaging.
Let’s introduce another term that speaks volumes: rage quitting. It’s precisely what it implies. While I’ve never actually hurled my laptop out of a window, I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t a frequent thought. Honestly, aside from wishing for an end to the pandemic, my most prevalent daydream involves resigning from my job. I understand the repercussions of staying too long in a harmful environment. After nearly four years, I only began voicing my concerns this past January. Initially, I was quite pleased with how my company managed the challenges of Covid.
While many faced job losses or had to work in person, I recognized the privilege of working from home. However, that doesn’t negate the swift transformation of our team dynamics into a dismal atmosphere. Does that sound exaggerated? Trust me, it’s an accurate portrayal of logging into a deteriorating work situation five days a week for eight hours. Just because adults can work remotely doesn’t mean everyone handles it well. Sadly, my coworkers are part of the reason we can’t enjoy the benefits of remote work.
Workplace Toxicity is Real
Some colleagues have completely disengaged, while others are obsessively striving to prove that remote work can be efficient. While neither attitude is inherently bad, the challenge arises when management expects those in the middle to reconcile these extremes.
During a recent check-in with my supervisor, I decided to be brutally honest about my current struggles. I absolutely despise admitting vulnerability, but I had reached my breaking point. I knew that if I wanted to remain in my role, I needed to express my needs. As we chatted, I was met with a condescending question: “So, where is your head at?”
When I started this job, I was an overachiever, the one who planned everything and made it appear effortless. The truth was, my high functioning anxiety was driving that performance. So, I opened up about my situation. I didn’t owe my boss this explanation, but I felt it was necessary. I was doing my job successfully, just at a more sustainable pace.
When I prioritized my well-being, I began to meet the expected standards without overextending myself. What’s wrong with that? I wasn’t sure how my manager would respond, perhaps with empathy or acknowledgment? Instead, I was met with irritation. “Well, you set the bar high for yourself, and that expectation isn’t going to change.”
What can you say to that? Maybe she didn’t fully grasp what I was trying to convey, so I elaborated. “I used to operate at an 11, but that was because I was unwell. Now, I’m aiming for balance. This means I’m functioning at a 7 or 8, but I still meet my responsibilities.” Clearly, this wasn’t the answer she wanted to hear. However, it’s the reality. I cannot sacrifice my health and personal life to meet unreasonable demands.
This isn’t a one-time encounter. Many similar discussions have occurred. If your workplace prioritizes productivity over people, you’re in a toxic situation. Companies often forget that without the employees who drive their success, they would cease to exist. I’m not advocating for coddling, but it is essential to remember we are human beings. The days of fearing job loss to stay in toxic environments are over. Let’s cut the nonsense—it shouldn’t be a struggle for power. I fulfill my role and meet expectations, and in return, I deserve respect and fair compensation. If that can’t be achieved, people will increasingly choose to put their own needs first.
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