What do you do when it seems your boss would like nothing more than to see you blow your top?
It sounds strange to say, but there are bosses out there (horrible bosses, I might add) who enjoy provoking their employees to wrath, fear, frustration, and any other number of negative emotions.
I’ve had a couple of bosses who fit this description, so believe me, I know. Among other things, one of my former managers used to:
Faced with this insanity, what in the world is a stressed-out worker to do?
First and foremost, understand your boss’s issues, aren’t yours, and you don’t have to take them on. Who knows why your manager acts this way? You don’t, and that’s fine. Better to spend your energy figuring out how to manage your own emotions, because a deliberately provocative boss will find ways to mess with them.
Is your intent to stay or leave the job? Know what you want and what the job offers you besides a lousy boss. If there are good reasons to stay, develop a long-term strategy around that goal. This strategy will probably involve actively appeasing your boss’ ego, but if you can pull it off and it’s worth it to you, then, by all means, do it.
On the other hand, if leaving the job is not an “if” but a “when,” your strategy might be to keep a low profile until you can exit gracefully. Either way, make a decision and stay the course, knowing that a provocative boss won’t be content to merely let you be.
Be proactive and gather plenty of supporters who’ll help you see straight when your boss’s bad behavior starts to wear you down. These allies can also act as professional references or vouch for your good work should your boss decide you’d make a suitable scapegoat for her latest screw up.
Take advantage of every opportunity to enhance your marketability and your resume.
Deliberately take time each day to invite laughter into the workplace whenever something strikes your funny bone. It’s hard to be stressed when you’re laughing, and you having fun will make your boss nuts (bonus)! As they say, the best revenge is a well-lived life. So …
Don’t let your boss’ nasty ways steal all your joy. Stay aware of the blessings in your life, and meditate on them as often as needed. Also, don’t neglect your health (physical, spiritual, and mental), hobbies, and family.
Why in the world would anyone want to be this miserable person? Imagine spending nearly every waking moment plotting how you can dominate other people. I honestly can’t think of anything less appealing.
Provocative bosses lack self-insight, usually can’t form real or lasting relationships, and live in fear of being found out for who they truly are, rather than the persona they project. Doesn’t that sound horrible? We should probably feel sorry for these folks.
A bad boss can make life trying, but you’re not without hope. Don’t give this individual more influence over your world than she’s earned, and stay focused on your plans for the future.
This, too, shall pass!
