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Strategies to keep me sane when working with toxic people (also a therapeutic rant)

4 replies

NewPage · 07/07/2021 11:46

Okay, will try to keep this short! I’ve had the year from hell. Not only all the COVID stuff, but diagnosed with breast cancer and going through treatment all the way through. Have a young family so also had to juggle all the home schooling during intensive treatments.

Anyway, returning to work in a few months. They have been doing all the right things etc but the issue I have is that a lot of the people I work with a total narcissists, selfish and unkind. Barely any have been in touch with me. In addition I was bullied in a previous role and whilst I was away some of my current team have ‘befriended’ the old bullies and it has set my blood boiling. They know what happened and whilst I know rationally they can do what they want, I feel like there is no team support etc.

So I need to go back and try to build up my resilience, make my own mark and try to build up a reputation that they previous colleagues and some current team mates hamper because they are basically toxic, insecure and competitive individuals. There have been 8 resignations whilst I have been off (team of 20) so I know it’s not all in my mind.

Anyone got any tips on how to play the game? Get on without letting them get to me and basically reinventing myself whilst juggling the worry of returning after a long spell away and all the head mess a cancer diagnosis and treatment leaves.

Thank you, I really do appreciate any taking the time to help me here.

OP posts:
FieldOverFence · 07/07/2021 12:52

There's an awful lot in that, and I think you would need to pick your priorities - so for example can you focus on just getting back into the swing of what your work requires at a very day-to-day level, and ignore trying to build/rebuild your reputation, who's friends with whom etc.

You've come through a lot, and getting back to simply doing a full time job will be challenge enough, and resiliancy-building enough, without getting into a social or political game at the same time

NewPage · 07/07/2021 13:09

Thank you, you are right. I am just so rubbish at politics so it really stresses me out. I need to reduce stress!

OP posts:
Redkey · 07/07/2021 16:14

I think you need a new job!

NewPage · 07/07/2021 17:30

@Redkey 😆You might be right. Wish it was easier to get one!

OP posts:
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