Is Your Workplace Making You Sick?
March 19, 2020
We all need a paycheck. It’s one of the necessary evils of adulthood. Unfortunately, too many of us get trapped in work situations that hurt us emotionally, physically, and/or spiritually. We started to buckle under the pressure and feelings of burnout, which can actually take a toll on our overall health and sense of well-being.
With bills to pay and mouths to feed, it can feel like we don’t have many options. In fact, we might even go into denial about how bad things have been because we feel like there’s nothing we can do. Take a look at the following situations and see if you can relate—is your workplace making you sick?
Lack of Stability
No one wants to clock in at work only to spend the day wondering if it will be their last. Yet, many people feel a lack of stability at their place of employment. A high turnover rate, constant layoffs, and a lack of communication from management can leave a dark cloud hanging over the workplace.
What to do: If you’ve been hearing rumors about impending doom or feel especially vulnerable, have a frank conversation with your supervisor. Stick to facts and direct questions without getting emotional. You might not love what you hear, but at least you’’l be better informed.
No Room for Growth
There’s nothing wrong with being happy doing the same things year after year. Some, though, want to know there are ways for them to grow and potentially move up on the company. Not seeing any way to move forward can be really upsetting, if that’s your goal.
What to do: Master your current role and make it clear that you’re committed to excellence. Then, inquire about any additional training or upcoming projects where you might gain new skills and opportunities. If your employer is not receptive to this, you may need to look elsewhere.
The Wrong Culture
Did you know that workplaces have a culture? It’s important to understand this because it can impact your job satisfaction. No one wants to feel like they don’t fit in every single day, but if you’re a mom of six who works someplace where no one has (or wants) kids, things can get complicated
What to do: Before you accept a job offer or apply for a new role, ask the hiring manager about the company’s culture. You’ll probably know pretty quickly whether it’s the right place for you.
Toxic Work Environment
There are a number of ways in which a work environment can become toxic. Rampant gossip, an overly critical boss, poor training, and not having the right supplies are among the worst. Before long, these types of things can take a toll on morale.
What to do: Disengage and distance yourself from any negative conversations about coworkers. This might be difficult to do at first, and it might alienate you, but it’s very important. You may also try talking to your boss about some of the things that are bothering you, but don’t be surprised if it gets you nowhere. In the end, leaving toxic workplaces is usually the best thing option.
Poor Health & Wellness Initiatives (If Any!)
This goes along with workplace culture, but some employers value the health and wellness of their staff more than others. Everyone should have access to nutritional food, proper breaks, and work conditions that don’t put them at risk.
What to do: Look at what some other businesses are doing (such as having a Weight Watchers program or weekly fruit delivery) and talk to your employer about how to implement them. You could even offer to do the leg work to improve your odds of it getting approved.
Rigid Schedules
There are certain types of work that require more rigidity, but the majority of businesses can find ways to offer flexible schedules. This can be very beneficial to the entire workforce as our busy lives rarely conform to the same mold.
What to do: Do some research about alternative scheduling and put together a proposal for your manager. You could offer to poll your peers and gather feedback on the topic. Then, you could work with your employer to come up with a pilot program.
Remember Your Worth
No matter what you do for a living, you’re bound to have good days and bad days. That’s normal. It’s not normal, however, to be filled with dread every time you’ve got to go to work. It’s understandable that you might not want to “rock the boat” by addressing the issues, but you can’t ignore them forever. Over time, it will take a toll on you.
Instead, take a level-headed, proactive approach to resolving the problem. It’s true that you may end up having to look for a new job, but at least you won’t be settling. You deserve to be happy and fulfilled so remember your worth and reach for your goals!
