How to Deal with a Narcissistic Boss
โจ Have you ever had a narcissistic bossโฆ? Yeah. That can straight up traumatize you ๐
Understanding a Narcissistic Boss
๐คซ Narcissistic bosses usually donโt reveal themselves right away. They wear you down over time. Itโs usually not obvious at first (you may even like them at first!) ๐
๐ฆ theyโll gaslight you into thinking youโre the problem
๐ theyโll pit you against your coworkers, creating toxic competition
โ they are never wrong, everyone else is to blame
๐ they have an excessive need for admiration & recognition & praise
โ๐ผ they canโt take criticism & lack accountability
๐ they are manipulative and exploitative, playing whatever role they need to to get what they want
โฆand more!
In other words, they often exhibit self-centered, manipulative, and demanding behaviors. They may undermine your confidence, take credit for your work, and create a toxic work environment.
๐ you canโt win! If you work with someone like this, you simply need to leave (or hope they leave first). Look for a new job, but if thatโs not currently in the cards then aim to minimize your interactions with them.
Minimizing Interactions
โ Do not try to reason, argue, or correct them. Do not show emotion, they feed off of this.
โ Just be BORING ๐ and they will go find someone else to bother
โ Maintain a record of your work, achievements, and interactions with your boss in case the issues escalate.
โ Prioritize self-care through regular exercise, relaxation techniques, and hobbies.
โ
Continue to excel at your job and remain professional despite the challenges to protect your reputation and future opportunities.
Dealing with a narcissistic boss can be emotionally draining. No amount of proof or evidence is going to change what they think is reality so thereโs no point in trying to reason with them. Just do your best to limit your interactions with them until you find a new job. Remember that you have the power to take control of your professional life and create a healthier workplace for yourself ๐ฑ
You got this ๐
๐ Need help finding that new job? Sign up for my Career Workshop Intensive, a 4-part program designed to help you get a job you love ASAP. ๐