Do you feel like you’re being poorly treated at work? Maybe your boss is constantly criticizing you, or your colleagues are making snide comments behind your back. Whatever the case, it’s important to remember that you have options. Here are six things you can do if you feel mistreated at work.

Keep a Record of What’s Happening

Managing a situation of being badly treated at work can be difficult and stressful. One step that could help you is to keep a record of any mistreatment, including dates, times, people involved, and details of what happened. According to reputable lawyers in Los Angeles, this information can be invaluable if you decide to take further action later. For instance, you can use this record as evidence in a formal complaint or support your case if you choose to pursue legal action. Keeping the written record will also give you a sense of control in an otherwise out-of-control situation and help you stay mindful of the issues you face. To ensure your documentation is kept safe and separate from work materials, store it in a secure account or physical folder away from work premises.

Talk to Someone Who Can Help

Being mistreated at work can be challenging to endure, and it can begin to take its toll on your health and sanity if you don’t seek help. Unfortunately, many people feel embarrassed or ashamed of the situation they find themselves in and don’t know how best to proceed. One thing that’s important to remember is that you are not the only one going through this challenging time, and a plethora of resources can offer comfort and practical advice. Talking with a trusted family member or friend about what you’re going through can provide much-needed emotional support that can be incredibly helpful in tough times. The same goes for seeing a qualified therapist or counselor who may have wise advice regarding conflict resolution strategies amid hostile work environments. Reaching out just might make all the difference.

Stand Up for Yourself

There is nothing more gratifying than standing up for yourself, especially when you’re badly treated. If someone begins to make advances or crosses a line you set, speak up immediately and let them know their actions are unacceptable. Explain why you feel uncomfortable with their actions, or if they continue to disrespect you, consider involving higher authorities, such as your manager or human resources, to force the conversation. Everyone deserves to be treated fairly and equally in the workplace, so don’t be afraid to use your voice and let other people know when someone has crossed boundaries.

Don’t Take it Personally

When confronted with bad treatment from a colleague or supervisor, it’s essential to take a step back and recognize that it’s not about you. It’s about the other person’s issues. Remember, too, that you have power, whether in how you respond or the resources available. If possible, try talking directly to the person treating you poorly. Perhaps they were not aware that their words or actions had affected you. Alternatively, consider seeing if there is an HR department where you work that could offer guidance on handling unfair treatment. In any case, preserving your professional self-worth and well-being is critical before representing yourself appropriately in a difficult situation.

Focus on Your Happiness

If you find yourself stuck in a hostile work situation, it’s important to remember that your job should not be the center of your life and should not be allowed to impact your well-being negatively. To ensure this is the case, it’s essential to focus on building and maintaining your own happiness outside of work however possible. From making sure you get plenty of exercise and making time for friends and family to exploring the great outdoors – there are endless ways beyond work to bring joy into your life. Permitting yourself to appreciate other parts of your life can help liberate yourself from any feelings or fears caused by mistreatment at work. You can create peace and balance outside the office and eventually see daily improvements in your life.

Know When to Walk Away

If you’ve reached a point where you consistently feel bad at work, it may be time to consider cutting your losses. Although considering a new job can be daunting and stressful, knowing when to walk away is critical in saving yourself from an unstimulating and unhealthy workplace environment. Seeking outside help can be beneficial, such as talking to a trusted colleague or HR personnel, but sometimes the best solution is to find a better job altogether. There’s no shame in starting over when the situation isn’t working for you – many people have gone through this before, and there are endless opportunities out there that might be more suitable for you.

If you’re dealing with a difficult situation at work, it’s important to remember that there are ways to cope. You don’t have to deal with it alone – talk to someone who can help you process everything that’s going on. And if the situation is getting out of hand, don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself or even look for a new job altogether. The most important thing is protecting your happiness and sanity.