Bullying makes life miserable. I experienced it in middle school, faced it again in high school, and unfortunately, it didn't end there. Bullies exist everywhere—workplaces, romantic relationships, non-romantic relationships, families, and more. As children, we often feel powerless, but as adults, we have a bit more control, though it can still be limited.
Let me share my story: A few months ago, I posted about having a "rough couple of months". I found myself being bullied at work by two colleagues—women around my age in their 40s —who seemed determined to make my life miserable. They sabotaged my work, blocked my career advancement, spread lies and rumors, and turned people against me. One of them held a position of power, which only made the situation worse.
The impact was severe. I felt mentally, emotionally, and physically drained. This took a huge toll on my health, and despite my attempts to seek help, HR and management were unresponsive. The root of their behavior was simple jealousy and pettiness because I was performing better than they were. At times, it felt like I was back in 7th grade, as they acted with the same immature and petty behavior. I was subjected to silent treatment, ostracism, and alienation, all while they received accolades and advanced through deceit and dishonesty. To add insult to injury, their personal issues, like divorces, were used as excuses for their behavior.
I recently left that toxic job and took time off to recover. It's been several months, and I'm now in a new position. Being away from that toxic environment has done wonders for my mental and physical health. I feel so much better being away from all of that garbage.
While they might think they won because I left, the truth is, I won by escaping those bullies and the toxic dumpsterfire workplace. I feel so much better now and have grown stronger because of this experience.
This all serves as a reminder that we can overcome even the toughest situations and emerge better for it.
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