When we think of toxic environments, we often envision places filled with physical pollutants - harsh chemicals, dangerous fumes, hazardous materials. However, toxicity isn't limited to tangible substances. Invisible toxins can permeate our workspaces, making our organizational cultures as deadly as a room full of noxious gas.
In such scenarios, leaders and employees often find themselves gasping for breath, seeking respite, much like one would reach for a gas mask or respirator in a physically toxic environment. Know this, work is no place to die! But what does a "respirator" for a toxic organizational culture look like? How can we arm ourselves with the right tools to not only survive but thrive?
Work is no place to die!
Here are 10 practical and spiritual "respirators" that can help:
1. Understand the situation (Ephesians 6:12): "Recognize that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." The toxicity around you is often a symptom of deeper issues. Having this perspective helps us approach situations with more understanding and less personal animosity.
2. Practice forgiveness (Colossians 3:13): "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone." Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Holding onto bitterness only makes the toxic environment more unbearable. Forgiveness can act as a filter, protecting your heart from the harmful effects of resentment.
3. Seek peace (Romans 12:18): "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." You can't control others, but you can control your reactions. Seek to create a peaceful atmosphere even in the midst of chaos by taking a moment to think before you act and to respond with tact and grace.
4. Focus on the positive (Philippians 4:8): "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." In a toxic environment, it's easy to get drawn into negativity. Keep your mind focused on the positive, acting as a constant reminder of the good things you have, do, and see amidst the bad.
5. Be resilient (James 1:12): "Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him." Resilience is the key to surviving and thriving in any environment. Stay strong in your faith and the principles you hold dear. Don't allow toxic leaders and team members to change you into someone you do not want to be.
6. Maintain Hope (Romans 15:13): "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." In a toxic work environment, it's easy to lose hope. But keeping hope alive is essential. It acts as an antidote to despair and helps you to endure. This verse reminds us to trust in God, who fills us with joy, peace, and overflowing hope, even in challenging circumstances.
7. Cultivate Love (1 Corinthians 16:14): "Let all that you do be done in love." Love is the ultimate antidote to toxicity. It covers a multitude of sins and fosters unity and harmony. Practicing genuine love in action and words can gradually change the atmosphere of your workplace. Be willing to be the model of love even when your leaders and colleagues do not reciprocate it.
8. Practice Patience (Proverbs 14:29): "Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly." Patience acts as a buffer against the reactive tendencies that can escalate conflict. It allows time for understanding and wisdom to guide our responses, thus preventing the amplification of toxicity.
9. Seek Wisdom (James 1:5): "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." Wisdom is the guiding light in confusing or difficult situations. Asking God for His wisdom can help you discern the best actions to take amidst toxic behaviors, protecting you from making harmful decisions and guiding you towards solutions.
10. Pray continuously (1 Thessalonians 5:17): "Never stop praying." This is your lifeline. Your talking to God is your direct connection to the ultimate source of strength, comfort, and wisdom. It's the pure oxygen that sustains you in an environment that threatens to suffocate your spirit.
Remember, these spiritual "respirators" are not quick fixes, but lifestyle changes to be integrated into our daily lives. They represent a commitment to nourishing your spirit, even when your personal and professional worlds feel toxic. Equip yourself with these tools, and you'll find that you can not only withstand a toxic organizational culture but also become a beacon of positivity and change within it.
Dr. Wanita Mercer, Ph.D. is the founder and CEO of Lead My Heart, an executive coaching and consulting company specializing in equipping executives and executive teams to live and lead with purpose, passion, and power. She has a Ph.D. in Education with an emphasis in organizational leadership, and she is certified in life coaching, executive coaching, change management, project management, executive management, and corporate crisis management. She has over 15 years of experience as an international educator, motivational speaker, author, and civic leader. She lives in San Antonio, Texas.
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