11: How a Narcissistic Boss Causes Stress and Burnout

Steps and Tools for Emotional Intelligence

In previous episodes Dr. Hamlin has discussed emotional burnout and what to do about it. Earlier episodes touched on narcissism and how to speak to a narcissist. The current episode brings these two topics together: burnout and narcissism.

What is a narcissistic boss? If we understand the key characteristics of narcissistic personality disorder, it can inform our strategies for setting boundaries with an unreasonable, demanding boss.

Part of emotional intelligence is self-awareness. This means that we need to make sure we are carrying our own weight in the workplace. We need to do some reality testing to make sure we are not projecting our own shortcomings onto the boss. But if a boss is truly narcissistic, he or she will likely be critical, demanding, stingy with encouragement, and will tend to take credit for himself or herself when it comes to your accomplishments. The lack of empathy is striking and the narcissistic boss will talk and make decisions in way that is wholly self-referential.

In this episode, Dr. Hamlin briefly explains 6 specific ways that a narcissistic boss causes crushing stress to those under him or her. But there's more. This excessive stress spills over into the family, friends, or significant others of anyone working for a narcissistic boss. He concludes by offering a few tips for how to cope with a narcissistic boss so that you can protect yourself and those you love.