Explore workplace toxicity, narcissism, and leadership accountability. Learn how to create a healthier culture.
In this episode with Len Sturdivant, we explore the roots of toxic work relationships, the impact of narcissism in workplace culture, and how personal struggles often show up on the job. We discuss how traits like stubbornness or unresolved issues can contribute to toxicity and highlight the employer’s role in fostering a healthy, supportive work environment. Tune in as we uncover workplace toxicity and how leaders can foster accountability, well-being, and productivity.
Key Takeaways:
The Power of Acknowledging Personal Struggles – Unspoken struggles don’t stay hidden—they seep into every area of life. When personal challenges go unaddressed, they create stress, impact performance, and strain relationships. Acknowledging and talking about them isn’t weakness; it’s the first step toward resolution and growth.
Recognizing Narcissism in the Workplace – Narcissism takes many forms, and it can quietly disrupt workplaces and relationships. Some seek attention by playing the hero, while others manipulate behind a friendly mask.
What is Altruistic Narcissism? – Altruistic narcissists thrive on being seen as heroes. They help others, not out of selflessness, but to receive praise and validation. When their admiration is threatened they may resort to competition, manipulation, or sabotage to restore their sense of superiority.
The Covert Narcissist’s Power – Covert narcissists thrive on secrecy and control, targeting those who outshine them. They quietly sabotage others while maintaining an innocent facade, ensuring their superiority remains unchallenged.
Helpful Resources:
- The Power of Boundaries in the Workplace – Highly sensitive and nurturing employees often attract difficult personalities, including narcissists. Their kindness and teamwork can make them easy targets. Setting clear boundaries and learning to say “no” helps protect them and maintain a healthy workplace.
- Protecting Yourself from Narcissists – Narcissists respond to only five things: shame, exposure, leverage, force, and consequence. If your boundaries don’t come with real consequences, they’ll be ignored. Setting limits is important, but enforcing them is what truly protects you.
- The CEO’s Role in Workplace Culture – CEOs set the tone for workplace culture. When they are actively involved, real change happens. However, leadership can be isolating, and CEOs may need their own safe space to address challenges. Supporting them strengthens the entire organization.
About Len Sturdivant
Len Sturdivant is a psychologist, relationship expert, and hiring strategist. As the owner of Relationship Coach Pro, he helps individuals and businesses build healthier relationships. Recognizing the link between dating and hiring, he developed personality assessments to improve hiring decisions. His 42 job-specific assessments, tested on 20,000 people, help companies reduce turnover and stay EEOC-complaint.
Follow Len Sturdivant on Social media
Email: len@relationshipcoach.pro
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LuvDocLen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relationshipcoachpro
Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha
Youtube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha
Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne
Communication is the foundation of everything and everything happens in communication. If you’re ready to take your communication to the next level, our Communication That Transforms course dives deep into creating psychological safety, handling crucial conversations, navigating conflict, and cultivating trust in a way that truly leaves the people in your life feeling seen, heard, respected and valued. It will transform how you lead and how you show up in all of your relationships. Learn more and register at www.mindremappingacademy.com/ticc. If you are a leader and your employees or teams are struggling with team dynamics, consider taking them through our new “Communications That Transforms” group cohort.
See the full course breakdown and get a free preview of key modules to experience the value. Go to https://mindremappingacademy.com/course-catalogue and schedule a call with Dr. Clairborne at www.mindremappingacademy.com/corporate-programs
