Managing A Toxic Boss + Knowing When And How To Leave
When Do I Know It’s Time To Leave?
Monday morning blues usually signal it’s time to do some soul searching to figure out whether this is about you or the job itself. Do you feel challenged? Are you motivated? Do you have your own personal issues that contend with the demands of the job? An honest self assessment should help you figure out whether this is more about you, the position or your boss.
When the preoccupation with these issues litter your personal life during your off time it’s time to move on. If you’re finding it hard to cut the strings because the offenses you’ve suffered during the week never exit your mind then it’s time to move on. Find ways to de-stress and decompress once you exit the building. Stop answering email during off hours and create boundaries that you adhere to when you are off the clock.
If you’re mental health is a concern, there is no question, you should leave. Everyone’s situation is different in that we all don’t have the luxury of just picking up and leaving. But if you find yourself depressed and anxious to the point that you’re unable to function on all cylinders then you’ve got some hard decisions to make. Nothing is worth your peace of mind and we have one life. This isn’t a dress rehearsal. So where there is a will, make a way for your exit.
This is also where having multiple streams of income comes into play. I remember Tyra Banks talking about having “screw you” money and I will never forget it. There’s the emergency fund and then there’s “screw you” money. That’s the money you have set aside so that if you’re in a serious bind, then you can afford to leave the job and take some time off for 1-3 months while you get your head together. Hopefully, during that time, you can make it happen in such a way that you don’t have to go back and eventually work for yourself.
How To Leave A Bad Situation
Always try to give at least 2 weeks notice unless your job situation is so unmanageable that you must leave immediately. If your mental health is in jeopardy then you can request leave using FMLA time and get yourself together, then give your official notice if that isn’t sufficient.
If you’re unable to give 2 weeks, then try to give 1 week or even a few days. Unless you’re in a situation where your physical well being is at risk, then it’s always best to give proper notice. A crappy boss is never worth your reputation. Remember, people leave bosses, not jobs. Bow out gracefully knowing that it’s OK to get off this batty amusement park ride.
