10 tips for dealing with a narcissistic boss at work

A narcissistic boss can completely ruin your life and drain you of energy to the point where your favorite job turns into hard labor. Is it possible to resist this?

The online publication AlbaWaba says yes. Here are 10 tips from experts on how to resist a strong egoist and stay successful.

Narcissistic people are self-centered, and their favorite pastime is manipulation and control. Therefore, the first tip is to correctly identify such a person based on their toxic behavior. This will help you build the right relationship model in the future.

Boundaries

Create a "professional" zone with clear boundaries and do not cross them. Avoid talking about personal topics as confidential information can always be used against you.

Inner peace

Calmness and concentration on the tasks at hand will protect you from the chaos and drama that narcissists love so much. Don't get involved in conflicts artificially created by your boss, regardless of your role in them, whether you are an angel or a villain.

Instructions and false information

Another favorite pastime of narcissistic bosses is twisting facts and turning situations around. In such cases, psychologists recommend documenting all work interactions, instructions, and feedback received from them to protect yourself.

Self-confidence

It is important to be confident when dealing with a narcissistic employer. Confidently express your thoughts, concerns, and opinions to avoid giving them an excuse to put pressure on you.

Team support

Having a narcissistic boss means that you're probably not the only one in the office who suffers from his intrigues. Therefore, seek support from the team and discuss current situations with colleagues to determine the best course of action. Such "cooperation" will also help you develop common methods of dealing with the egoist.

Focus on success

Don't let your egomaniacal employer become the center of your attention. Focus on your own professional development, set goals, and work hard to achieve them. Shifting your focus to personal success will be an added motivation in a challenging work environment.

Facts and details

Narcissists do not like objective facts and evidence, but prefer emotional arguments. Therefore, when you propose something, do it with facts and concrete results in hand. This way, you will reduce the possibility of psychological pressure on yourself and will not be able to impose an inferiority complex on you.

Admiration and recognition

It is vital for narcissists to be appreciated and given their due. Therefore, admire your boss's achievements when necessary and soothe his or her inflated ego.

Help from a psychologist

Don't reject professional advice.

If the situation is critical and affects your health and productivity, don't hesitate to seek help from a psychologist.