Expert Tips On How To Handle A Narcissistic Boss Without Compromising Your Well-Being

Have you just been the target of an “I’m always right” sounding boss? It literally tests your limits and pushes you into the corners that you didn’t even know existed before. Here are some ways of handling your narcissistic boss without affecting your mental peace:

Understand their traits

A narcissistic boss often craves validation. They want to be in the spotlight, manipulate every situation they can in their favor, and clearly dismiss others’ contributions. Recognizing these behaviors may help you deal with them strategically without showing yourself in a bad light.

Accept it

There comes a point in your work life when you feel like giving up. Don’t let the narcissist push you into that situation. If they don’t change, accept it and understand that their battle is not yours to fight. Focus on controlling what you can and ignore what you have no authority over.

Don’t respond

Narcissistic bosses often look for a reaction, so they get a point to demean you. Reacting to their behaviors only gives them the attention they crave. Instead, don’t respond or stay silent when they make unreasonable demands or criticize you.

Don’t share with colleagues

While it might be tempting to vent your frustrations to coworkers, this can backfire and not in a good way. Gossip spreads like fire, and your words could easily reach your boss, worsening your situation. Instead, share with someone outside of work, such as your partner, sibling, or even a close friend.

Set clear boundaries

Set clear boundaries with them for your own sanity. Decline last-minute requests that require you to stay late or refuse to engage in discussions that are not work-related or appropriate. This may upset your narcissistic boss, but remember, you’re not doing anything wrong by staying away from things that don’t matter.

Don’t take it personally

Remember, the issue lies with your boss, not with you. Their criticisms or negative behavior speaks volumes about their character, not their capabilities or what they are worthy of. Keeping this perspective will help you maintain your self-esteem.

Document everything

Keep records of your interactions with your boss, especially those involving direct orders, criticisms, or anything that could be used against you later. This documentation can be helpful during your performance review or if you must report to HR about their behavior.

Stay focused

Stay focused on your work and career growth. Remember your goals and why you joined this company in the first place. This is the best revenge against your narcissistic boss, and it will leave them with no chance to criticize you or doubt your achievements.

Communicate carefully

When you need to communicate with your narcissistic boss, choose your words wisely. They can pick anything and use it against you. Be clear and neutral in your communication, and always stick to the facts.

Seek support

If you think it’s getting out of limits, seek guidance from your fellow colleagues or even talk to the manager if needed. They might be going through the same, and together, you can come up with the best possible solution to deal with your narcissistic boss.

Don’t compete with them

Trying to outshine or compete with a narcissistic boss is a losing battle. They’re likely to perceive it as a threat and could retaliate badly. Focus on doing your job well without engaging in a power show, as it’ll do more harm than good.

Have an exit plan

Sometimes, the best course of action is to move on and start new. If your boss’s behavior becomes unbearable and you cannot see it changing, begin looking for new opportunities. Your mental health and well-being are not worth going through these kinds of behaviors.