How to thrive in a bad environment
Practical advice for a way out
The key advice here is simple: find a better environment.
And the don'ts are just as clear: don’t stay too long in a toxic environment. That's the gist, and now let me explain why this holds true.
First off, thank you for taking the time to read. If you’re here with me, it means you’re interested in growing and improving, which is what we all aim for. So, take a moment to acknowledge yourself for being part of the journey.
What would Martin say?
Change your company or change your company.
Martin Fowler
It sounds simple, right? But it’s incredibly insightful.
In any challenging environment, we have two clear options:
Fix it from within – meaning, improve things by making changes.
Leave – when the situation doesn’t have room for growth or improvement, sometimes the best move is to find a better opportunity.
The tricky part is understanding what kind of situation you’re dealing with and knowing when it’s time to move on. Let’s break it down.
Toxic culture
In a company with a poor culture, leave as soon as possible.
Life’s too short to invest your time in a place where you’re not supported or respected. Culture is the backbone of a company, and changing it is a monumental task that requires everyone’s involvement.
If the culture has become ingrained, it's often very difficult to fix on your own. But here’s the good news: there are always other opportunities out there that align better with your values and work style.
Bad engineering practices
This one can be more nuanced, especially depending on where you are in your career. For a junior engineer, a workplace with poor engineering practices could lead to some bad habits. It's important to recognize these and not let them influence your future work.
However, if you're a mid-level or senior engineer, this can be a unique opportunity to make meaningful improvements and grow your skills. It might be challenging, but turning things around can be highly rewarding and provide tremendous professional development.
No growth opportunities
What happens when you’ve outgrown your current role? If there’s no room for advancement, then it's time to explore new opportunities.
Give it an honest shot for about six months to see if things change. Be proactive and communicate with your manager about your growth aspirations. If nothing changes after your efforts, it may be time to start looking for a role where growth is prioritized.
The key is to focus on your long-term career goals. Don’t settle for stagnation. There are always opportunities for advancement, and it’s important to seek them out.
The takeaway
If you find yourself in a challenging situation, remember: it’s always okay to seek better opportunities. You deserve to be in a place where you can grow, be supported, and thrive.
Take a deep breath, reflect on your options, and know that with time, the right opportunity will come along. Keep your focus on growth, both personally and professionally, and remember: better environments are out there waiting for you.
Thanks for reading! If you want more insights like this, feel free to share and let’s continue growing together.