Surviving the Narcissist in the Workplace: A Guide

The workplace is where we spend a considerable chunk of our lives. And if you’re unlucky, that time can feel like torture thanks to one toxic coworker-the narcissist.

Beware: If you think your colleague is a narcissist (and it’s not just harmless bragging), get ready for emotional abuse, gaslighting, and manipulation at its finest. But fear not! In this article, I’ll guide you on how to navigate this minefield-like situation with grace and humor.

Identifying the Narcissistic Coworker

First things first-let’s make sure your gut instincts are correct:

  1. Sense of entitlement: Your colleague thinks they are superior to everyone else in the office.
  2. Lack of empathy: They don’t care about anyone but themselves.
  3. Demanding attention: Always seeking admiration from others-through their accomplishments or beauty.
  4. Blame shifting: Refuses to take responsibility for any mistakes or shortcomings; instead blaming them on co-workers or management.
  5. Manipulative personalities
  6. Difficulty handling criticism
  7. Vicarious living through work colleagues
    8.Excessive self-absorption

If you have spotted these qualities in someone at work, chances are high that they could be feeding off other employees’ hard work while contributing little.

Dealing With The Narcissistic Dilemma

Now that we know who our problematic subject is let’s move ahead into some suggested tips & tricks-

Tip #1: Stay Calm And Keep Your Thoughts To Yourself.

Remember those kindergarten lessons-“If you can’t say anything nice then don’t say anything at all.” That applies here too.Breathe deeply because no conversation merits losing control.Do breathe out his taunts and focus on listening rather than arguing back.This will keep relationships smooth with colleagues without filling the workplace with negative energy.

Tip #2: Set Boundaries And Be Firm About Them.

Establish boundaries in every situation whether verbal or non-verbal.E.g. Declining that extra workload which does not fall under one’s job description but is piled on by a narcissistic co-worker.

Tip #3-Avoid Giving The Narcissist Any Such Information Which Can Be Played Against You.

If your colleague appears friendly at first glance, make sure to not reveal much gossip or failures about yourself, as it’ll end up being used against you.Be careful with what you say and always maintain mutual work talk with them.It’s better to be safe than sorry!

Tip #4- Document The Interaction

This could turn out helpful if and when things get even worse.Your documented interactions can provide evidence of harassment and workplace abuse.Investigations into such employees require solid proofs hence making sure proof is readily available can save someone from losing their dignity respect and job security

Tip#5- Rise Above It All & Enjoy Yourself

Don’t let anyone bring down your vibes!Stay positive and keep enjoying your work.You only live once after all.So try your hand at new hobbies during a break time like reading /exercise etc.These enjoyable activities replenish mental stamina for future tasks too.Do breathe out any negativity that was created throughout the day.

In Conclusion,

Surviving the Narcissist in Workplace isn’t easy but clearly though everything seems impossible until done.One should stay calm away from picking fights.Support friends in tough situations.The thing here is we don’t have control over people around us.What we do have control over, however, how we respond.Give yourself credit for handling these emotions.Learning how to deal with a narcissistic coworker may seem difficult now.But give it some time-you will sail through it.Superhero cape on,you got this!

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Glossary

  • gaslighting: psychological manipulation to make someone question their own sanity and memories
  • vicarious living through work colleagues: seeking satisfaction from the achievements of people within the same organization
  • entitlement: believing oneself to be deserving of privilege or special treatment.

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