A study showed that 56% of workers complain about toxic management. And the American Psychological Association found that 75% of Americans consider senior colleagues the main source of stress at work.

A recent study confirmed that every second person who quit voluntarily left work to escape their boss. But there is other data too. For example, people stay with toxic bosses significantly longer, on average two years longer than with kinder ones. Why?

People stay with bad bosses for many reasons
Most often I heard the following:
- I have no energy to look for a new job;
- I really like my colleagues / the commute to the office;
- I need the salary, I can't manage without it;
- I don't want to lose my benefits;
- the situation with my boss may improve.
Many excuses come down to the basic defense reactions of the human psyche. Under heightened stress, people often suffer emotional exhaustion that leaves them no strength to find a way out. It is hard to quit without a new job lined up, and it is hard to find a new job when you feel drained. Denial of loss is another psychological process that keeps us from giving something up. We try to hold on to what we have already achieved, especially if it was not easy. It may be salary, status, stability, experience, social connections and other benefits we have built up over the years.

What to do if you cannot leave

Take a bad boss seriously. If quitting is not possible, there are several strategies you can use right now to soften the potential damage, whatever type of toxic leader you are dealing with.

Formulate specific requests

It is usually a good idea to find common ground with your manager. But a tough boss will probably not accept criticism. So try to bring up specific issues that will help you get the resources and support you need. Give a rational reason why you need what you are asking for and what benefit it will bring to your manager and your company. Think about when to talk to your manager. It is best to start the conversation when they are calm and in an upbeat mood. Before that, be sure to prepare and anticipate all possible outcomes.

Make time for exercise and sleep

It is very important to look after your physical and mental health. If possible, take a temporary break from work. Outside the office, focus on activities that bring you joy and satisfaction. Pay attention to mindfulness and relaxation practices such as yoga and meditation. Cultivate a positive mindset and remember that you cannot control your boss's behavior, but you can control your reaction to it.

Find out what other options are available in your organization

There is a good chance you can get away from a toxic leader without leaving the company. Look at interesting positions in your company, get to know colleagues and managers from other departments, and think about where your skills could be useful and what could be the reason for your move.

Discuss the situation with HR

Before filing a complaint with a senior HR manager, check the HR department's reputation among employees. Talk about the problems and your attempts to fix them.
If HR has already helped other employees in similar situations, it may be able to offer a solution to a problem you had not thought about.