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Archana

Archana Deshpande  |129 Answers  |Ask -

Image Coach, Soft Skills Trainer - Answered on Aug 03, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 03, 2026
Career
I am into sales with a very toxic work environment. Being shouted at, abused, publicly insulted during team meetings is a regular thing. We are expected to take calls off work hours, late nights, even on weekends and holidays. The current job market makes it difficult to get out of this situation. Friends and colleagues say there is no guarantee I won’t face same situation elsewhere. All this is taking a toll on my mental health, relationships and personal life. Please advise how I should handle this situation.
Ans: Hi!!
First, I want to acknowledge something very important: what you’re describing is not ‘normal workplace pressure.’ Occasional stress is part of most jobs, but constant humiliation, verbal abuse, and the expectation to be available 24/7 are signs of an unhealthy work environment.

When people stay in such environments for a long time, they often begin to believe that this is just how the corporate world works. It isn’t. There are demanding workplaces, and then there are toxic workplaces—and it’s important to know the difference.

At the same time, I understand the reality of today’s job market. Walking away immediately may not be financially possible, and I would never advise someone to make an emotional decision that puts their livelihood at risk.

So my advice would be threefold.

First, protect yourself emotionally. Don’t let someone else’s behaviour become your identity. Public criticism says more about the leader’s style than about your worth. Keep reminding yourself of your strengths and achievements. Speak to trusted friends, mentors, or a counsellor if you feel your mental health is being affected.

Second, create healthy boundaries wherever possible. You may not be able to change the organisation overnight, but you can communicate professionally about availability, prioritise recovery time, and avoid carrying workplace negativity into your home. Your family deserves the best version of you, not the exhausted version your workplace leaves behind.

Third, start preparing your exit strategically—not desperately. Update your résumé, build new skills, strengthen your professional network, and begin applying consistently. Don’t wait until you’re completely burnt out to look for another opportunity.

And finally, don’t let people convince you that ‘every company is like this.’ That’s a dangerous generalisation. Challenging workplaces exist, but so do organisations where people are treated with dignity and respect. Your goal is not just to find another job; it’s to find a healthier environment where you can grow without sacrificing your well-being.

Remember, success is not measured only by your salary or your designation. It is also measured by your ability to go to work without losing your self-respect, your peace of mind, and your relationships.
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Archana

Archana Deshpande  |129 Answers  |Ask -

Image Coach, Soft Skills Trainer - Answered on Aug 03, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 01, 2026
Career
I met my ex at a school reunion. He is now divorced and has two daughters. I found him smoking. He had a bald patch but looked extremely fit. I had last met him in 2013 so our meeting was a bit awkward. I couldn't help staring back at him because i was curious to know what he was up to. We spoke briefly but I found myself being interested in his current life though I am married and we have a 11 year old son. While leaving, he said his number was still the same. I came back home and wondered if that was his way of telling me to call him and say in touch? We were married for 4 years before we decided to quit as I could not get along with his family. I never expected to see him again like this. I never thought I would want to know about his life so much. What is this feeling? What should I do?
Ans: Hi!!

There are always emotions involved when you meet your ex! It is but natural because of the time you have spent together and everything comes back once you meet that person again! Women being the nurturer , the way the nature made us, it is also very natural for you feel the need for keeping in touch because he is divorced!

You are married and you have a 11 yr old son( this is what I get when I read this message, I hope I am right). This is your present situation, you need to focus on them right now and not your past! Bless your ex from far… … in all the cases I have seen so far… getting involved with an ex has never ended well!!

Take care of yourself and your present in order to have an amazing future!!
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