Have you taken the role of victim, or do you FEEL like a victim in your life or career? This is a common issue in our culture. In this audio clip, you’ll learn how changing your mindset can help you stop being a victim.
There is no question that bullies exist in the workplace.
However, you always have the choice to opt out of being a victim when you feel bullied or disrespected by a coworker.
A big part of my coaching practice involves guiding clients from victimhood to self-empowerment, because I have learned how common it is for people to feel bullied by coworkers and take on the role of victim.
Remember this:
Nobody can steal or take away your power without your permission! You NEVER have to take on the role of victim, even if the person you are interacting with has a different title than you.
Do you feel disempowered or take on the victim role in the presence of “big personalities?”
Do you feel pushed around when someone has a louder voice than you? If so, it’s important to recognize that how other people behave usually has nothing to do with you.
For instance, in many corporate settings, people learn that the person with the loudest voice wins.
They become comfortable being outspoken.
It’s how they make themselves feel safe because it’s how they have survived in the world they’ve been living in.
So, feeling like you are being bullied by someone is not your cue to take their behavior personally and feel like a victim.
What you can do (and should do, if you want to feel empowered rather than victimized) is not allow it.
This doesn’t mean engaging in a war of wills or getting into a big argument.
It’s about standing in your truth.
It’s about self advocacy.
One way to step out of the victim role and into self-empowerment is to request to pick the conversation up at another time, when you both feel more relaxed and able to speak from a centered place.
Circumstances will vary, but the biggest thing to keep in mind is that it is okay for you to speak up.
Be mindful not to deem others more important than you just because they are more outspoken, even if they have a different title or role in the company.
Say what is working for you and what doesn’t feel comfortable or constructive.
Every relationship is a 50-50 dance.
And if you are not holding your ground on the 50% that is yours, you may be stepping into the role of victim.
Start to notice when this is happening. If this is prevalent in your life experience, it may be time to do some inner work around self-empowerment so you can stop being a victim!
Feeling stuck in a job you hate, but not sure what to do next?
You're not alone, and you don't have to figure it out on your own. Getting the right support can make all the difference.
If you're ready to explore what's next
→ Click here to complete this worksheet and take the first step toward getting paid to do you.
And if this made you think of a friend or colleague who's struggling at work, please share it with them. A little encouragement goes a long way.
