Toxic Work Environment: 4 Ways To Rise Above It

A toxic work environment can be emotionally draining. It’s hard enough dealing with negative people, but it’s even harder dealing with them in a place that matters to your financial wellbeing.

Here’s how you can rise above a toxic work environment

Find an outlet 

In a toxic environment, you get exposed to negativity on a regular basis. This can take its toll on not just your mental health but also your physical health, in the long run. Studies show that stress resulting from being in a toxic environment can cause our bodies to release large quantities of stress-producing hormones and neurotransmitters. 

Thus, being in a constant state of stress without having any outlet can have adverse health effects such as burnout, depression, and high blood pressure. Some of the ways you can release stress include exercise, meditation, team sports, running, swimming, etc.

Focusing on situations or people in your workplace that are hard to change will only leave you more stressed and discouraged. Instead, find things that are within your locus of control and give you satisfaction when you do them. For example, you would be better off completing a project that could lead to promotion instead of getting bogged down by office politics. 

Keep your distance from negative people

Nothing good comes from being around negative people. You only end up getting into situations you didn’t bargain for and compounding problems for yourself. Yes, you can be nice to them, however, do not mingle with them in such a way that you get involved in their drama. This prevents you from adopting a negative attitude and allows you to focus all your energy on the things that matter to you.