Surviving The Toxic Workplace: How To Deal With A Narcissistic Coworker
Dealing with a narcissistic coworker can be a challenging task, but it is crucial for maintaining productivity and mental well-being in the workplace. Narcissistic coworkers exhibit negative behavior that can create a hostile work environment, making it difficult for others to perform their jobs effectively, and impacting morale and productivity. Narcissistic individuals have an inflated sense of self-importance and seek constant attention and admiration from others, making them extremely selfish and manipulative. This article will discuss how to deal with a narcissistic coworker in a healthy and positive way.
The first step in dealing with a narcissistic coworker is to recognize their behavior. Some common signs of an exhibitionist narcissistic coworker include an inflated sense of self-importance and entitlement, lack of empathy for others, a tendency to exploit or take advantage of others, need for admiration and attention, tendency to be arrogant and dismissive of others, and a lack of self-awareness and insight into their own behavior.
Once you have recognized their behavior, it is essential to set boundaries. Narcissists may try to take advantage of you or exploit your kindness, so it’s important to be clear about your limits and expectations. This might include saying no to unreasonable requests or demands, refusing to engage in arguments or conflicts, setting limits on the amount of time you spend with the coworker, and being clear about your role and responsibilities in the workplace. When setting boundaries, it’s important to be firm and assertive, but also respectful and professional.
Another important step is to avoid engaging in their drama. A narcissist coworker’s goal is often to get a reaction out of you. They thrive on attention, and they will do whatever it takes to keep the focus on themselves. By engaging in their drama, you’re giving them exactly what they want. If your coworker tries to start an argument or create conflict, resist the urge to respond in any kind. Instead, take a deep breath and remain calm. If necessary, remove yourself from the situation and take a break to regain your composure.
It is also important not to try to change them. Narcissistic individuals rarely change their behavior, and attempting to change them can lead to frustration and wasted energy. Instead, focus on managing your own reactions and interactions with them. This can help you maintain your sanity and protect your emotional well-being in the workplace.
Staying calm and composed is another crucial step in dealing with a narcissistic coworker. Narcissists might try to provoke you, so it’s important not to react emotionally. Instead, try to remain objective, professional, and focused on the task at hand. For instance, if they try to take credit for your work, politely but firmly let them know that you won’t tolerate it.
Documenting your interactions with a narcissist coworker can be crucial in protecting yourself and your work environment. Keeping a record of their behavior can be useful as evidence for future reference, protecting you in case the situation escalates. It can also help you gain clarity and perspective on the situation, allowing you to develop a plan to deal with the situation.
Finally, it is important to seek support from your colleagues or manager. Dealing with a narcissistic coworker can be emotionally draining, and it is essential to have a support system in place to help you cope with the stress. Talk to a trusted colleague or manager about your concerns, and work together to develop a plan to deal with the situation.
In conclusion, dealing with a narcissistic coworker can be a challenging task, but it is possible with the right approach. By setting boundaries, avoiding engaging in their drama, not trying to change them, staying calm and composed, documenting everything, and seeking support from colleagues or managers, you can protect your productivity and mental well-being in the workplace.
