I Once Worked At A Toxic Workplace. It Was So Suffocating That It Made Me Hate My Dream Job: Here Are 5 Warning Signs To Watch Out For So You Don't End Up Repeating The Mistakes I Made

Ever felt your dream job and the skills you nurtured with so much passion have made living every day a nightmare? Fret not, you are not alone. Many of us navigating the treacherous waters of today's fast-paced and (often) toxic work environment can relate to this. 

Here are five red flags I wish I had recognized sooner and subsequently taken action to reclaim my sanity at work: 

Lack Of Transparency: The Beginning Of Mistrust 

“Communication is key” — this phrase isn't repeated in almost every lecture on team building just because it sounds good, but because unclear communication can lead to chaos. If your bosses or colleagues are being secretive, withholding information, and you feel like you're stumbling in the dark, that's a warning sign.

Micromanagement Madness: The Seed That Gives Birth To Insecurity 

We all want to learn, and we all want to grow. Most of us also know our limitations and where we need help from our seniors. But, if your boss is breathing down your neck, questioning everything you do, and stifling every ounce of creativity or autonomy left in your body, that's a warning sign.

Persistent Negativity: The Cultivator Of Toxic Atmosphere

An office environment where every update, feedback, and word of communication is filled with negativity, is a place where even the most enthusiastic employees cannot shine. If your bosses or colleagues focus more on problems instead of finding solutions, that's a warning sign.

High Turnover Rates: The Result Of Poor Leadership

Frequent changes in the workforce mean poor leadership, a toxic work environment, and a lack of growth opportunities at the company. If your organization cannot retain talented employees, it is a warning sign.

Blurred Work-Life Boundaries: The End Where You Sacrifice Almost Everything

Unlike how TV shows and movies romanticize round-the-clock availability in a workplace, sacrificing personal time for work can quickly lead to burnout. If your bosses have unhealthy expectations or your Slack notifications follow you at the dinner table, that's a warning sign.

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