Written by: Erin Sarles, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
The modern workplace is rife with challenges that can leave employees feeling undervalued, overworked, and underappreciated. A toxic workplace culture can impact an individual's physical and emotional well-being, leading to a range of negative consequences for both the individual and the organization.
But what if there was a way to revolutionize workplace culture from the inside out? What if the key to improving relationships with our bosses and co-workers was to first shift our relationship with ourselves?
The truth is, the way we relate to ourselves impacts the way we relate to others. When we don't value ourselves, we allow others to treat us poorly. When we don't respect ourselves, we allow others to disrespect us. When we don't prioritize our well-being, we allow others to take advantage of us.
So, how can we shift our relationship with ourselves to improve our relationships with others in the workplace? Here are a few tips:
1. Practice self-care
Self-care isn't just about bubble baths and candles (although those can be great too). It's about taking care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally. Make time for exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep. Prioritize your mental health by seeking support when needed.
2. Set boundaries
One of the most important things we can do for ourselves is to set boundaries. This means saying "no" when we need to and setting limits on what we're willing to tolerate from others. When we set clear boundaries, we communicate that we value ourselves and expect others to do the same.
3. Reframe negative self-talk
We all have an inner critic that can be harsh and judgmental. But when we allow that voice to take over, it impacts the way we feel about ourselves and can lead to negative interactions with others. Reframe negative self-talk by focusing on your strengths and achievements.
4. Practice empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. When we practice empathy, we create space for understanding and compassion in our relationships. This doesn't mean we have to agree with everyone, but it does mean we can approach our interactions with curiosity and openness.
5. Speak up
Finally, it's important to speak up when we're not being treated fairly or respectfully. This can be difficult, especially in a hierarchical workplace culture. But when we speak up, we communicate that we value ourselves and expect to be treated with respect.
When we shift our relationship with ourselves, we can create a ripple effect that impacts our relationships with everyone else, including our bosses and co-workers. By prioritizing our own well-being and setting clear boundaries, we communicate that we value ourselves and expect others to do the same. Practicing empathy and reframing negative self-talk can create more positive interactions with others. And by speaking up when we're not being treated fairly, we can create a workplace culture that values and respects everyone.
So, let's start a revolution. Let's shift our relationship with ourselves to shift our relationship with others in the workplace. Let's create a workplace culture that values and respects everyone.
Erin Sarles, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Erin Sarles, is the brilliant mind behind Soulful Leadership. She is an industry leader in executive leadership, business coaching and real estate. She has a gift for helping clients, businesses, and families reach their full potential and build beyond what they think is possible. She is proactive and takes into account all aspects of the individual or business to develop the best strategy for growth. She will challenge people to think outside of the box but also to look at things they can change within themselves to be in alignment with where they envision going forward. Erin is unapologetically herself so she can take you to being UNAPOLOGETICALLY YOU!
