Introduction
This is a challenging article for me to write, as I’ve been observing the nuclear fallout of toxic leadership in my trauma recovery coaching certifying association over the past week. While I was aware of the dysfunction at the top of the house for quite some time, I chose to distance myself from the dysfunction that seemed too similar to the childhood trauma I experienced.
Many of the coaches in this community are hurting right now due to the lack of safety, unkept promises, and retraumatization that they experienced in an organization that was supposed to be trauma-informed.
Unfortunately, toxic leadership is not uncommon. If you’re a trauma survivor dealing with Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), encountering toxic leadership in the workplace can be incredibly challenging. It’s essential to understand what toxic leadership is, how it manifests, and the impact it can have on your well-being. In this article, we’ll explore these topics and provide guidance on how to cope with toxic leadership while prioritizing your mental health.
What is Toxic Leadership?
Toxic leadership is a destructive form of leadership that creates a negative and dysfunctional work environment. Toxic leaders often exhibit behaviors such as:
- Intimidation and bullying
- Micromanagement and excessive control
- Lack of empathy and emotional intelligence
- Narcissism and self-centeredness
- Inconsistency and unpredictability
These behaviors can lead to a hostile and stressful workplace that can be particularly triggering for those of us with CPTSD.
The Impact of Toxic Leadership on Trauma Survivors
As a trauma survivor, you may be more sensitive to the effects of toxic leadership. Some common experiences include:
- Heightened anxiety and hypervigilance
- Feelings of powerlessness and helplessness
- Difficulty trusting others and forming relationships
- Increased risk of emotional flashbacks and dissociation
- Diminished self-esteem and self-worth
It’s important to acknowledge that these reactions are valid and understandable, given your past experiences.
Coping with Toxic Leadership
While dealing with toxic leadership can be challenging, there are steps you can take to protect your well-being:
- Set boundaries: Learn to say no when necessary and communicate your limits clearly and assertively.
- Document interactions: Keep a record of any inappropriate or abusive behavior to support your case if needed.
- Seek support: Reach out to trusted colleagues, friends, family, or a therapist for emotional support and guidance.
- Practice self-care: Engage in activities that promote relaxation, mindfulness, and stress relief.
- Consider your options: If the situation becomes unbearable, explore alternative employment opportunities or discuss your concerns with HR or a higher-level manager.
Journaling Prompts for Self-Reflection
Journaling can be a powerful tool for processing your experiences and emotions. Consider exploring these questions:
- What strengths and resilience have you demonstrated in navigating toxic leadership?
- How can you prioritize your well-being and set healthy boundaries in the workplace?
- What support systems can you cultivate to help you cope with the challenges of toxic leadership?
- In what ways can you advocate for yourself and others who may be experiencing similar struggles?
- How can you reframe your experiences to focus on growth, learning, and empowerment?
Remember, you are not alone in this journey. By understanding toxic leadership, developing coping strategies, and focusing on self-care, you can navigate this challenging situation with greater resilience and self-compassion.
Conclusion
Dealing with toxic leadership as a trauma survivor with CPTSD can be an overwhelming experience. However, by recognizing the signs of toxic leadership, setting boundaries, seeking support, and prioritizing self-care, you can protect your well-being and build resilience. Remember to be kind to yourself and acknowledge the strength and courage it takes to navigate these difficult circumstances.
Resilient Career Academy Group Coaching Membership: Open Enrollment is 4 June — 13 June 2024. Click HERE for more information.
An Invitation
If you’d like to join an online community of other resilient overcomers focusing on their careers, I invite you to join The Resilient Career Academy™ Community. (RCA Community)
The RCA Community is a group dedicated to helping/supporting those working to overcome adversity and achieve their full potential in their careers.
The benefits to you are:
Community — The community provides support, encouragement, the ability to share frustrations and get feedback from people who understand the struggle
Workplace/Career Resources — The group provides tools, resources, and templates to help you with your career journey
Available Coaching Support — The community is supported by trained and certified coaches who are available for individual sessions
Learning — You will have access to various trauma/workplace-related online courses developed by our coaches to help you in your journey
Workshops/Webinars — You will have access to practical workshops/webinars targeted to help you in the workplace grow your career
If you are interested in joining us, click here: https://resilientcareeracademy.myflodesk.com/community
As always, you do not have to walk this journey alone. Contact me to schedule your free discovery call.
Trigger Tracker Template — Track, place, and plan the coping strategies you will use to get through the experience.
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You can also visit my website for more information on courses and other freebies I offer at: https://www.cyndibennettconsulting.com.
Believer. Leader. Learner. Advocate. Writer. Speaker. Coach. Mentor. Triathlete. Encourager. Survivor.
Most of all, I am a fellow traveler on the rocky road called, Trauma Recovery. My mission is to minimize the effects of trauma for survivors in the workplace.
Toxic leadership is especially disturbing and prevalent in the healthcare industry.