Excel as a Leader under Toxic Leadership

If you’ve been in any organization long enough—whether it’s the military, corporate world, or even small teams—you’ve likely encountered a toxic or hostile leader. They micromanage, belittle, or create an environment where fear outweighs trust. Unfortunately, leadership titles are handed out far more often than true leadership is lived out.

I’ve dealt with a few myself and while it’s easy to let frustration build, here’s the truth: you can still excel in spite of their insufficient leadership skills. In fact, how you respond under poor leadership often defines your growth more than when you serve under a great one. I have also had the distinct pleasure of working for a lot of really great leaders. Both toxic leaders and great leaders taught me many things as a young leader. 

As a young leader or a seasoned leader who has never faced a toxic/hostile leader, there are a few things in which you can do to gain the most out of this unfortunate situation. I have always liked the RESET method for dealing with any situation in which I need to pull my mind out of the negativity loop and separate what you can control from what you cannot then focus on what you have control over.  

Step 1 - Recognize the Reality

The first step is to Recognize the situation. A toxic leader’s behavior says more about their insecurity than your capability. Don’t confuse their lack of leadership with your value. Recognizing the difference keeps you grounded and prevents their behavior from becoming your identity.

Step Two - Envision a Better Standard

Once you’ve recognized it, Envision what right looks like. If you were in their position, how would you lead differently? What standard would you set? This mental shift keeps you focused on what you can control instead of staying trapped in what you can’t.

Step Three - Shift Your Response

You can’t control their actions, but you can Shift your response. Instead of reacting emotionally, respond professionally. Document your work. Keep communication clear. Hold yourself to a higher standard than the environment you’re in. Over time, people notice the difference between someone who adds to the chaos and someone who stabilizes it.

Step Four - Embody the Example

Great leaders often rise in the shadows of bad ones. Embody the leadership you wish you had. Be steady, fair, and accountable. Even if you’re not “in charge,” your presence will influence peers—and sometimes even your hostile leader.

Step Five - Track Your Growth

Finally, Track your growth. The lessons you learn under toxic leadership will shape how you lead when it’s your turn. Keep a journal of what you will and will not do when you’re given the responsibility to lead others. Brick by brick, you’re building a foundation that outlasts the hostility.

Toxic leaders may create obstacles, but they also provide a powerful classroom. If you commit to recognizing, envisioning, shifting, embodying, and tracking—our RESET framework—you will not only survive but thrive. And when your time comes to lead, you’ll be the leader others wished they had.

👉 If you’re ready to reset your own leadership standards and rise above the challenges in your workplace, schedule a discovery call with me today: Book Your Call Here .