Gaslighting: The Silent Saboteur in Your Workplace
Have you ever been told something, but felt deep in your bones, “hummm I’m not sure about that?”, but didn’t dare question it because it came from you boss or someone in power and you thought “oh, they must be right”. Or maybe been told something and immediately felt small or less than and then later wondered - “wait? I remember that differently?” Followed by “Oh no, I must be the crazy one, I’d better not screw up again”. In our latest episode of the People Impact Podcast, we dive deep into the unsettling topic of gaslighting, particularly how it manifests in professional environments. Gaslighting isn't just a term from an old movie; it's a real and impactful issue that can destabilize individuals and teams. Understanding it is crucial for understanding toxicity in the workplace and fostering healthier workplaces.🧠Recognize the Signs: Gaslighting often involves making someone question their memory or competence. It's not just a simple mistake or oversight; it's a deliberate act to destabilize and manipulate. Be aware of patterns where your talents, strengths, or zones of genius are being questioned. It can absolutely make you feel crazy. 🗒️Document Everything: If you suspect you're being gaslit, start documenting interactions and incidents. This not only helps in providing evidence if needed but also grounds you in reality, helping you trust your own experiences and perceptions. This is vital to making sure your confidence isn’t eroded, while at the same time holding yourself and those around you accountable.🥚Understand the Impact: Gaslighting can severely affect confidence and efficiency, leading to a stressful work environment. It leads to questioning one's own abilities and can create a stressful environment where individuals feel they are constantly walking on eggshells.Recognizing its presence is the first step towards addressing it and protecting your mental well-being.Join us as we explore how to identify and combat gaslighting, ensuring that your workplace remains a space of trust and growth. Listen to the full episode for more insights and strategies.More about People Impact:Lisa Dempsey – https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisakdempsey/ - https://www.leadershiplabs.euAnn Betz – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ann-betz-a6b31018/ https://www.beaboveleadership.comReach us at PeopleImpactPodcast@gmail.com#Podcast hashtag#Leadership hashtag#Gaslighting hashtag#EmotionalWealth hashtag#ToxicLeadership hashtag#PeopleImpactPodcast hashtag#ProfessionalGrowth
Notes from the Field - Social Contract
This week, we're exploring a concept that is fundamental yet often overlooked in our daily interactions— the Social Contract. This idea, though abstract, plays a crucial role in understanding the dynamics of toxic leadership and the subtle ways it can manifest in organizations.”In the gray areas of unwritten social contracts, toxic leaders find their playground—where chaos breeds control and logic is left in the dust."To join our Inclusion Community Call click here:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/uT7bMKbgQgG43rej_IC3xgThank you for being a part of our community. Let's continue to learn and grow together.If you haven't already, check out the podcast episode on Idealization, Devalue, and Discard for more insights into toxic behavior patterns.https://open.spotify.com/episode/3mGrIbWWXLaVt6Y2814raW?si=Rr1CGOKGQTWtjT6odKCV0AUnderstanding these dynamics is essential for fostering inclusive and healthy work environments. If you have questions or thoughts, feel free to share them in the comments. Let's continue this important conversation together! 🌍Looking forward to hearing your thoughts, questions or comments! 😊
Notes from the Field - Power Over vs Power With
“True leadership isn't about wielding power over others; it's about harnessing the collective strength of a team to create a thriving ecosystem where everyone can shine."Welcome to the second bonus edition of Notes from the Field. This week I've been reflecting on the dynamics of leadership and the stark contrast between "power over" and "power with" leadership paradigms. In today's complicated and messy world, understanding these concepts is crucial for fostering healthy, sustainable work environments.Together we can create environments where everyone can contribute, innovate, and grow together. Remember, true leadership is about empowering others and building inclusive ecosystems of collaboration. 🌱You can take action now and either join an Inclusive Leadership Community Meeting:Community Meeting Linkhttps://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/YJ53XTVAS1W7YVu602GqcAOr sign up for a free Leading in Uncertainty 1:1 sessionhttps://leadershiplabs.simplybook.it/v2/#book/service/12/count/1/Let's work together to create healthier ecosystems where everyone can contribute and flourish.Thank you for being a part of our community. We look forward to continuing this journey with you.#Leadership #Collaboration #Innovation #PowerWith #SustainableGrowth
Notes from the Field - Chaos and Control
"In a world where chaos reigns, toxic leaders thrive. It's time to unveil the truth behind the power grab and reclaim effective leadership."As we navigate through these challenging times, it's crucial to understand the patterns of toxic leadership and how they can impact our organizations. I've been reflecting on the difference between effective and toxic leadership, especially in the face of chaos and uncertainty.You can take action now and either join an Inclusive Leadership Community Meeting:Community Meeting Linkhttps://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/YJ53XTVAS1W7YVu602GqcAOr sign up for a free Leading in Uncertainty 1:1 sessionhttps://leadershiplabs.simplybook.it/v2/#book/service/12/count/1/If you're feeling the weight of uncertainty in your leadership journey, I invite you to reach out for free coaching sessions or join a community of like-minded leaders. Together, we can navigate these turbulent waters and emerge stronger.Let’s keep the conversation going! 💬#Leadership #ToxicLeadership #ChangeManagement #Community #InclusiveLeadershipLink to original video published on March 12, 2025https://youtu.be/hB5gKIQ5J_o
Toxic Workplace: Are You Swimming in Poisonous Waters?
Have you ever been in an organization where things felt off, but you just didn’t know why? You complained and vented, and no matter how much you vented, it just stuck to you? You felt like it wasn’t safe to speak your mind, but you weren’t sure why?You felt exhausted and taken advantage of, but that was the norm?You felt ignored and like your practical suggestions just weren’t not heard or welcome? Or maybe you felt like your skill or talent were accepted or approved on a variable and conditional basis….maybe today, maybe not tomorrow? Guess what, you were likely working in a toxic organizational system! …or at least one that was toxic to you. In our latest episode, Ann Betz and Lisa Dempsey dive deep into the complexities of workplace toxicity with special guest Ursula Pottinga. Together, we explore how toxicity can manifest not just through individuals, but within the very organizations systems we operate in. We dive deep into the T.O.X.I.C. framework Ann and Ursula have developed , which helps identify troubling, oppressive, exploitative, ignoring, and conditional aspects of workplace environments.Highlights from this episode:🌎 Toxicity can be Systemic: It's not always about a single bad boss or coworker. Sometimes, the entire organizational system can be toxic, impacting everyone involved. Recognizing this is the first step toward change.🌟 Personal Impact Matters: Understanding how the workplace environment affects you personally is crucial. Tools that assess your experience can empower you to make informed decisions about your career path.🗣️The Power of Feedback: A healthy workplace encourages open communication and constructive feedback. If your organization is ignoring or dismissing your concerns, it may be time to reevaluate your fit within that system.Why It Matters:Understanding the toxic elements in your workplace can empower you to make informed decisions about your career and well-being. Whether you're feeling troubled by your environment or simply seeking to improve your workplace culture, this episode offers valuable perspectives and actionable insights.More about People Impact:Lisa Dempsey – https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisakdempsey/ - https://www.leadershiplabs.euAnn Betz – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ann-betz-a6b31018/ https://www.beaboveleadership.comReach us at PeopleImpactPodcast@gmail.com