Ask an Expert: What Should I Do If My Boss Is Gaslighting Me?

As much as possible it's best if you lessen your interaction with your gaslighting boss but during conversations try to have witnesses around and use emails or other written documentation to recap conversations and agreements.

Having a real-time record of your interactions will make it harder for your boss to question your sanity and backpedal on agreements. Moreover, seek out mentors and actively look to build networks and build relationships with different leaders.

• Do whatever you can in order to create distance between your mental well-being and your boss's abusive behavior.
• If possible you can try to externalize their behavior instead of ruminating on them. The way people treat you is a statement of who they are as a person, not a statement about you.
• Focus on reaffirming your value and engage in many life-affirming activities. Remind yourself of who you are and what your values are.

It's critical to have a strong support system by your side whenever we're dealing with emotionally challenging situations.

surround yourself with friends and people who support you and encourage you, these can be family, friends, work colleagues, or even therapists.

Before confronting or escalating this issue with management, do your homework first. Have a clear game plan for what you want to achieve from that conversation.

1. Ask trusted colleagues if they have any information or experience that would be helpful;
2. Check out sites where employees leave reviews of their employers.

Be specific with the resources and support you need in order to execute your job and explain to your boss how this will benefit them and the organization.

There are also other ways to escape your toxic boss without having to leave your company.

Try to look into other positions in the company that are within your interests, meet with colleagues and managers in other departments, and think about where your skills might translate.