Most people would think that a leader is eager to learn and inspire others.

They would also assume that this individual would act on behalf of what is best for any particular organization.

Yet, people who serve in positions of power come in all types and not all of them are well intentioned. Some are known to be emotionally unhealthy and their attitude spills over into what they do and how they perform or treat others.

I’ve heard people say, “Being in charge doesn’t mean you are necessarily skilled at what you do any more than having children qualifies you for being a good parent.” Being a self-serving, greedy, or mean-spirited leader generally creates a depressed environment. When workers dread seeing or communicating with an organizational leader, they typically experience a lower morale toward their job or work atmosphere. Unfortunately, many employees will continue to work for these types of leaders for different reasons, and as a result they feel trapped. 

A bully is one who intends to hurt or take advantage of others. He or she may not bully everyone—just those who easily become victims. They like to embarrass or ridicule others. They are arrogant in their beliefs and tend to attack the same person numerous times. Consequently, they do not usually own up to their behavior. The act of bullying is self-serving and inappropriate.

If you feel as though you are being bullied at work, speak to that person in private. Explain the way you are feeling in hopes to resolve the situation directly. Remember that your body language is crucial as to how the leader or bully perceives you. He or she may thrive on seeing you squirm or portray fear in your words or actions. Refuse insults and remove yourself from a particular setting if the leader does not choose to behave rationally.

Keep in mind that being bullied is not your fault. It is the immature nature of another that may not be corrected. Do not feel ashamed that this is happening to you.

Consult family members and close friends for advice. If the bully will not be leaving the company soon, it might be in your best interest to look for better employment opportunities.

Unfortunately, the bully will display his or her attacks on someone else within the organization.

The bully does not realize the issue is due to an emotional problem.

Therefore, the problem will more than likely not be solved by reason or logic.

Dr. Sonya Rogers is a certified counselor who lives in Daphne. 

Her column regularly appears in the Daphne Bulletin and Spanish Fort Sun.