Such an interesting article by Leah Carroll (BBC Workplace), about how many employees are becoming less concerned about burning the bridge behind them with their employers as they flee a toxic work environment, and more concerned with advocating for themselves, setting boundaries, speaking truth to power and putting their values into action.
Hooray to that!
I’ve burned bridges twice in my career, when I knew I was working in a toxic environment that wasn’t going to change, no matter what concerns I repeatedly raised or who I spoke to about it (e.g. HR, senior management etc.).
Both times it was a last resort. Both times I’d pushed it to the limit, even beyond, of what I was prepared to tolerate.
And both times I left feeling free, like a heavy weight was lifted from me, and that I had a world of possibility and opportunity in front of me.
And, because I’d worked with some really, really great people, I also left with the sincere hope that things would improve over time for those who chose to stay.
For me, it wasn’t just an ending, but a new beginning.
Walking away from a toxic situation or culture is not failure, especially if it’s one that you know you can’t change on your own. If you’ve repeatedly spoken up, done what you can, and the only thing that changes is that the defensive ranks get tighter to protect the status quo, then it’s time to consider going.
This may sound like a strange opinion from a team coach. Surely all toxic relationships can be fixed?
Well, a coach, any kind of coach, can only work with a team or individual that recognises something isn’t right, and that something (maybe many things) needs to change.
And that they are willing to do the work, push through any discomfort, and invest in the time and energy to make that happen.
From that place, anything is possible.
The tides are changing, at last, and toxic leaders are finding it harder to abuse the power they have without being held accountable.
And that’s a good thing.
Younger generations are more vocal, and less afraid to walk away. They want (demand!) purpose, inclusion, honesty and healthy connections. And to feel like they are making a positive difference.
Ultimately, isn’t that what we all want? Isn’t that the kind of work environment we should all be contributing to and building together?
Why ‘burning bridges’ may not be a career killer – BBC Worklife
