Share

Is your boss toxic?

Burdened by an overbearing boss? Your heart may pay the price. A Swedish study found that workers' risks for angina, heart attack and death rose along with the reported incompetence of their bosses. Here's how to survive.

Take action:
Accept that the bully has personality problems – anyone who finds it necessary to wield their little bit of power in a way that humiliates those working under him/her, has problems of a deeper nature; don't take it personally – if you get shouted at for no reason, this is not about you, it's about the bully; ask for written instructions – in this manner, your boss has to get his/her ducks in a row before tasks are given; remain polite, but distant – never reveal any personal details to your boss (he/she may just use this information to intimidate you); and learn to say no – a favourite tactic of bullies is to expect the increasingly impossible.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE