Bullying is a pervasive issue that affects individuals across various settings, including the workplace. While the detrimental effects of bullying on mental health and well-being are well-documented, its impact on employee work performance is often overlooked. I want to shed light on what I went through and how bullying threatened a power imbalance on my life. It lead to feelings of helplessness and incompetence, and subsequently affected my productivity and overall performance.
Power Imbalance and Helplessness...
Bullying in the workplace often involves an abuse of power, where the bully seeks to assert dominance and control over their target.
This power imbalance left me feeling helpless and unable to defend myself adequately. The constant fear of being targeted or humiliated can significantly impact an employee's confidence and self-esteem, leading to a decline in their work performance.
Feelings of Incompetence
Bullies often target individuals they perceive as a threat or competition. This can be due to jealousy, envy, or a desire to maintain their own position of power. Consequently, the victim may start questioning their own abilities and skills, doubting their competence in their role. This self-doubt can hinder their performance, as they may become hesitant to take on new challenges or make decisions, fearing further criticism or ridicule.
Isolation and Team Dynamics
Bullying can create a hostile work environment, isolating the victim from their colleagues and team members. The fear of being targeted may prevent the victim from seeking support or collaborating effectively with others. This isolation can lead to a breakdown in team dynamics, as the victim may feel disconnected and excluded from important discussions and decision-making processes. Consequently, their overall work performance may suffer due to a lack of cooperation and synergy within the team.
Emotional Distress and Mental Health
The emotional distress caused by bullying can have severe consequences on an employee's mental health. Constant exposure to bullying behaviors can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and even depression. These mental health issues can further impact an employee's work performance, as they struggle to concentrate, make decisions, and maintain motivation. The emotional toll of bullying can create a vicious cycle, where poor work performance leads to further criticism and bullying, exacerbating the negative impact on the employee's well-being.
Bullying in the workplace is a serious issue that not only affects an employee's mental health but also has a significant impact on their work performance. The power imbalance created by bullying can leave individuals feeling helpless, incompetent, and isolated from their colleagues. This, in turn, can hinder their productivity, decision-making abilities, and overall performance.
I went through all of this and I got so tired of it all I used my voice. I spoke up and called a meeting with my supervisors peers and their direct manager. I broke down in tears and explained to them what had been going on for months. It was crucial for the organization to address and prevent the workplace bullying immediately.
They finally saw how it was affecting me, and how this supervisor fostered a non supportive and devalued environment that did not promote the well-being and productivity of their employee. They then addressed it and reassigned me with another supervisor. My life has changed in a great way and my work environment is fun, filled with education and non stop growth.
Cheers to self advocating.