4 ways to reclaim your joy in a toxic work environment

SINGAPORE – Are you unhappy at work despite enjoying your job? If yes, you are not alone. Many employees experience toxic work environments where negativity and drama infiltrate every aspect of their professional lives, ultimately sapping their motivation and stifling their potential.

According to a survey by gender advocacy group AWARE and consumer research company Milieu Insight last year, one in two people experienced workplace discrimination in Singapore in the past five years. Yet, more than half of those who did failed to report it.

Experts interviewed by Yahoo Southeast Asia cited discrimination, unfair practices, high turnover rates, and micromanaging bosses as signs of a toxic workplace.

If you find yourself in a toxic work environment, there are strategies to safeguard yourself and improve your situation.

1. Negotiate for a less stressful workload or seek ways to remove some stressors

Karyen Chai, a psychologist from Thoughtfull Chat said employees can negotiate with their supervisor to address stressful situations in the workplace. However, she notes that this may only sometimes be feasible. "It is dependent on workplaces. Some may not have the freedom to say, 'Hey, I want to disengage for now, or I want to take some leave.'" She suggests discussing different workplaces and communicating some issues to the supervisor.

Chai stresses the importance of identifying the source of stress or burnout. If the source of the problem is a colleague, she suggests considering ways to mitigate the issue, such as reducing interaction or finding coping mechanisms.

She also notes the importance of effective problem-solving, which involves addressing the problem and managing the emotional response.

2. Take charge of your mental health by seeking a therapist if you need support

Chai also said some individuals are hesitant to try therapy due to concerns about the process and cost.

However, she emphasised that treatment comes in many different forms and can be sought out through various platforms, such as asynchronous therapy, where individuals can text and await their therapist's response.

Chai added that there is a misconception that therapy is expensive, but many affordable options are available. She stressed that treatment involves specific skills, focusing on finding solutions rather than venting.

3. Be aware of your company's leadership style to identify any toxic workplace culture

A toxic work environment can be recognised through both external and internal factors, said Professor Mak Yuen Teen, professor (practice) of accounting at NUS Business School, who specialises in corporate governance.

He highlighted bullying behaviour among leaders as a significant contributor to a culture of fear and discomfort among employees.

Prof Mak emphasised that leadership sets the tone of the work culture, and if not handled well, it can lead to cliques, favouritism, and a lack of focus on employee development. High turnover rates can also be a red flag for a toxic work environment.

4. Be clear about your expectations in the workplace

Dr Annabelle Chow, a principal clinical psychologist at Annabelle Psychology, believes that it is essential in the workplace to put attention to what is within our focus and what is not.

She shared with Yahoo Southeast Asia how one's mindset can help extract value in the learning process. Employees should be clear about their expectations in the workplace and communicate them with their supervisors. This can help in setting goals and managing stress.

Dr Chow advised, "To maximise your learning from this organisation, orientate your mindset towards the things you should focus on."

However, she cautioned, "You cannot win on all fronts. You cannot expect to learn extensively while maintaining a perfect work-life balance and leaving work at a fixed time, such as 6pm."

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