A lot of young people are battling depression as a result of staying too long in a toxic workplace, mostly because they do not have other work options or because the company/organization is paying them a lot of money and they think the money is enough compensation for whatever mental health issues may arise from the toxicity they experience.

First off, how does one spot a toxic workplace? Well, according to what we have seen in our line of work, toxicity appears in many forms – micromanagement from bosses, formation of cliques among work colleagues, absence of a work-life balance or even a semblance of it, bad leadership, absence of good communication, encouragement of toxic behaviors, cronyism, driving the ‘me’ narrative instead of the ‘we’ narrative, etc.

If you notice some or all of these on your workplace, it is good to start looking for other options, instead of attempting to keep waiting for things to be better. Truth is, a toxic workplace will affect your overall performance and things hardly change for the better. The toxicity is often so imbibed that it becomes the company or organization culture.

So, how can you move on from a toxic workplace?

Be determined to learn from your mistakes. Truth is that no one wants to work in a toxic workplace. Once you have made up your mind to move on, be sure to know the signs of a toxic workplace, and keep them in mind. This will keep you alert when you start going for interviews for another job.

If you see the signs, disregard the company. If you do not see any signs, engage former workers at that company to conduct an informational interview. This will give you insights about who your potential employer really is.

Always remind yourself of your value and do not doubt yourself. Focus on your strengths and assume a winning personality. This will help you refuse to internalize any ill feelings as a result of your former toxic workplace.

When you eventually start working in a new place, pay close attention to your mental health and guard it jealously. Yes, earning money is good but being mentally healthy is even better. Your mental health is top priority.

Source - https://lingoafrica.com/toxic-workplace-blues-leave-and-dont-look-back/

Lingo Africa.

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