Bullying bosses are a big pain in everyone's neck. They lower moral, and cause more problems than they solve.

First, you can't change him so you need to adjust in a way that does not rob you of your identity. I once had a boss that yelled and chastised you in front of staff. No one knew from day to day who would be his next target. Many of the younger workers quit. They just could not deal with the abuse any longer. None of us respected him.

You can"t hit a bully head on. He likes to fight and he's an expert at explaining why he has to yell at everyone. His explanation, nobody listens. He was right, we pretend to listen, shook our heads and said yes a lot, but blew him off as soon as he walked out the door. Some went to the Corporation itself. This is taking a chance, because higher ups do not like whiners.

Our boss asked for suggestions at meetings to improve the place. At the beginning, maybe a Newbie responds to this request. They try and make an impression on the boss. He smiles and says he will consider his or her idea. His nature is such that there is no way he will. He is a micro manager after all.

In order do deal with a bully, a person has to keep their cool, take deep breaths, and not give him the satisfaction in knowing he got to you.

Remember bully bosses will say the wrong thing to management eventually. They will be asked to resign and move on to torment another place of employment. We had a party when our bully left.

Don't let him tear down your self esteem. Use your personnel days, or as we called them mental health days. Play the game. By that I mean, always agree with him and don't argue, you cant win. But if someone calls in sick and they ask if you can come to work have a Dr's. appointment or some excuse. It's a little white lie but so what .You have to pace yourself too. Slow down a little. Vent to your friends when off the clock.

A bully boss only has power if you let him. Do not give him the power. Wake up every day look in the mirror and give yourself positive self talk. Another exercise is to take a walk on your lunch hour if possible. The fresh air helps clear mind and relaxes you at the same time.

When you have a day off re charge. Do lunch with a friend. Go browsing at the mall and window shop. Take a nap. Read a book. Enjoy the day. Treat yourself well you deserve it. What no one deserves is the lack of respect. We all need to value ourselves.

Learn more about this author, Suzanne Roerig.
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