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I had a previous role like that. Boss was the absolute worst. Put a pic of the 3 stooges as their contact in my phone so when they called to micromanage me with their inane, idiotic demands and questions, this showed up. Risqué but it immensely helped remind me what the was dealing with.
You’re welcome.
Speaking from personal experience, this can be challenging but is not completely impossible. Here’s a few things I’ve practiced to help navigate this period -
1) Network with other leaders across the org. These relationships are important for both your current role growth but also if you need to explore a department move for other opportunities 😉
2) Find a trusted (preferred non-peer or direct report) colleague that you are safe confiding in for advice, and frankly sometimes a much needed vent-session
3) Leave no conversation with current boss where any items can be left for interpretation. For example, if something is said that doesn’t settle with you well do not leave that conversation without revisiting and ensuring it’s clear. Best practice to this is also to follow up with an email recapping your conversation and expressing your appreciation for additional clarity and dialogue.
All of these are great points and I can’t emphasize number 3 enough. My boss loves to insert petty comments, pretend he didn’t say things when we revisit them, and is just an absolute all around idiot. So I always recap the conversation with him and follow up with a slack / email. He’s gotten the hint now and he’s much more careful with his words.
If I’m being completely honest, my dislike for/conflict with my boss made it not worth it to stay. I just put in my final notice for this reason. It has taken a ton of weight off my shoulders and I feel so much better. I’m not sure if that’s the right decision for you, but no job is worth your mental health
If you cannot change bosses it doesn’t matter how much you like the company. You will be miserable. Leave.
Me
One thing I would add is look at your boss’ boss and consider if your boss is the problem or their boss is the problem. We sometimes emulate the habits and norms that our leaders typically do. If after doing this you can come from a place of empathy and have a conversation with your boss about how you’re feeling and how you could be a better team with some changes, I’d recommend doing that before jumping ship.
Antidepressants and crying at my desk is how I’m making it work. It’s great. I’m fine.
I’ve been in that situation twice. But my mental health can’t keep that up too long. One time last about 9 months but was super stressful due to toxicity. Another situation lasted a couple years (maybe close to 3) but still eventually took its toll and I left. Now I have a great boss and feel so much happier. I wish you well.