2025 – Browning Advisors, LLC

Surviving—and Thriving—Under a Toxic Boss: 3 Key Actions to Protect Your Well-being

Navigating the workplace under a toxic boss can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to define your career or personal happiness. Whether it’s constant micromanaging, unrealistic expectations, or an unconstructive communication style, taking thoughtful and proactive steps can make a world of difference. Here are three essential actions to help you address the issue:

1. Focus on Building Boundaries

A toxic boss often tests limits, so it’s crucial to establish and maintain your boundaries. Politely but firmly communicate what you need to stay productive. For example, if you’re receiving messages outside work hours, express when you’re available. Boundaries not only protect your mental health but also set the tone for mutual respect.

Pro Tip: Use confident, non-confrontational phrases like, “For us to meet deadlines effectively, here’s what I propose…”

2. Document and Stay Professional

When toxic behavior crosses into unprofessional territory, keep a record. Note dates, specifics, and the impact on your work—this can be crucial if escalation becomes necessary. No matter the provocation, always maintain a professional demeanor. This not only protects your reputation but strengthens your case if HR or upper management gets involved.

Pro Tip: Ensure your documentation is fact-based, not emotional. Stick to what can be verified.

3. Seek Allies and Use Resources

You’re not alone. Speak with trusted colleagues to confirm if others are experiencing similar behavior. Together, you can discuss concerns with HR or a higher authority. If your company offers resources like counseling, an ombudsman, or mentorship programs, take advantage of them. Strength lies in unity and support systems.

Pro Tip: Frame your approach constructively. Focus on solutions rather than accusations to make your concerns more effective.

Final Thoughts

Working under a toxic boss is undeniably challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to build resilience and refine your career strategies. By setting boundaries, documenting facts, and seeking support, you empower yourself to rise above workplace toxicity. And remember, your mental well-being and professional growth should always come first.

Unleashing the Power of DISC for Small Businesses

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of small business, understanding and leveraging the strengths of your team can make all the difference. This is where the DISC assessment comes into play. Developed by psychologist William Marston, the DISC model categorizes behavioral traits into four main types: Dominant (D), Influencing (I), Steady (S), and Compliant (C). Implementing the DISC assessment in your small business can lead to a myriad of benefits, from enhanced communication to increased productivity. Let’s explore how.

1. Improved Communication

One of the most significant advantages of using the DISC assessment is the improvement in communication among team members. By understanding each individual’s communication style, employees can tailor their interactions to be more effective. For instance, those with high Dominance may prefer direct and concise communication, while those with high Influence may thrive on enthusiastic and engaging conversations. Recognizing these differences fosters a more harmonious work environment and reduces misunderstandings.

2. Enhanced Team Dynamics

DISC assessments provide invaluable insights into the behavioral traits of your team members. This knowledge allows you to build balanced teams that leverage the strengths of each member. For example, pairing individuals with high Conscientiousness with those who have high Influence can result in a team that is both detail-oriented and creative. By aligning complementary traits, you can create a cohesive and high-performing team.

3. Increased Employee Engagement

When employees feel understood and valued, their engagement levels soar. The DISC assessment helps managers recognize the unique motivations and stressors of their team members. This understanding enables managers to tailor their leadership approach, providing the right support and recognition for each individual. As a result, employees are more likely to be motivated, satisfied, and committed to their work.

4. Better Conflict Resolution

Conflict is an inevitable part of any workplace, but how it is managed can make or break a team. The DISC assessment equips employees with the tools to navigate conflicts more effectively. By understanding the behavioral styles of their colleagues, employees can approach conflicts with empathy and find mutually beneficial solutions. This proactive approach to conflict resolution can prevent issues from escalating and maintain a positive work environment.

5. Improved Hiring Processes

Hiring the right talent is crucial for the success of any small business. The DISC assessment can be a valuable tool in the recruitment process, helping you identify candidates whose behavioral traits align with the needs of the role and the company culture. This ensures that new hires are not only skilled but also a good fit for your team, leading to higher retention rates and a more cohesive workforce.

Conclusion

Incorporating the DISC assessment into your small business strategy can unlock a wealth of benefits, from improved communication and team dynamics to increased employee engagement and better conflict resolution. By understanding and leveraging the unique strengths of each team member, you can create a more productive, harmonious, and successful business.

Browning Advisors LLC is your local vendor to offer the Maxwell Method of DISC. Developed to incorporate the principles of the #1 leadership expert in the world, Dr. John Maxwell, we can offer many uses of the DISC method to assist with sales, communication, team dynamics and more.

Jay Browning, MBA
Owner/Principal Consultant