When It’s Just Not the Right Fit: Navigating Toxic Workplaces and Moving Forward

Sometimes, a workplace feels wrong in ways that are hard to explain. It may not be overtly hostile or chaotic, but subtle red flags begin to creep in, leaving you drained, second-guessing yourself, or simply disconnected from the environment. Recognising a toxic workplace isn’t about placing blame; it's about understanding when your values, style, or even presence simply don’t align with the space you're in.

Signs to Look Out For:

While toxic workplaces come in many forms, here are a few quiet but telling indicators:

• A lack of trust or psychological safety—you don't feel comfortable speaking up or being yourself.

• Inconsistency in values versus behaviour—the company talks about culture, but what you experience day-to-day feels entirely different.

• Favouritism, poor communication, or exclusion, whether in meetings, decision-making, or opportunities.

• You feel like your face just doesn’t fit—and it’s not about your performance or effort

  
  

Sometimes it's not about a toxic culture per se, but rather a fundamental misalignment between who you are and what the organisation needs, or believes it needs. And that’s okay!

It's Not a Failure, It’s Feedback.

Experiencing a work environment that isn’t right for you isn’t a personal shortcoming. It doesn’t mean you’re difficult, incapable, or flawed. It just means this wasn't the place for you to thrive.

What matters most is how you respond. Instead of internalising it, choose to reflect.

• What did you learn about the kind of environment that does work for you?

• What values are non-negotiable for you in your next role?

• How will you spot the green flags that signal a good fit?

  
  

Own the Story, Then Turn the Page:

Leaving a job due to culture misfit or toxicity doesn’t need to be cloaked in shame. It’s a real, human experience, one that many people go through. Framing it as a career detour rather than a derailment helps others (and yourself) see it for what it was: an opportunity to recalibrate.

The right team, the right leadership, the right values—they are out there. And more often than not, they’ll recognise and appreciate the clarity and confidence you gain from having made a brave choice to walk away.

So if you find yourself dusting off and taking stock, know this: it’s not a setback. It’s a setup for something far better aligned!