Victoria Goddess of Victory or Goddess of Shame

Derived from the Roman goddess of victory, the name Victoria also exudes power and success. One of the most powerfully recognized women leaders, Queen Victoria became a national icon who was identified with strict standards of personal morality including worth ethics and personal improvement.  Victoria’s beauty has carried over the centuries, a name with unprecedented strength and conviction, unwavering in her presence yet quick-witted and determined, a worthy leader when given the honor.

The Unworthy Leader

During a recent visit to Toronto, I was walking en route to a conference, when I couldn't help but overhear a conversation between two twenty-something colleagues regarding their manager/leader, Victoria.  Yes, you can say I was eavesdropping which also was my inspiration for writing this blog post.  There was a concern not only for Victoria’s management style which included her lack of mindfulness and inclusivity for her team but also the stress and outward disrespect. My ears were burning with such comments as “She never has time to meet with me”, “she won’t allow anyone to offer their thoughts during meetings”, and “I left a meeting in tears as Victoria embarrassed me in front of the whole team”, “I feel anxious every day when I go to work”, and those are just a few statements of how Victoria negatively exuded her power and success destroying the psychological safety that employees and colleagues are entitled to experience.

Taking Back Your Power

After hearing such disparaging comments, I immediately began thinking of the impact this behavior could have on their well-being and future career. Had Victoria’s negative behavior scarred them for life, would they have the confidence to find their power and success? Will they accept this toxicity, quietly quit, or develop imposter syndrome? 

If you’re ever faced with this situation (hopefully not) the most important thing you can do for yourself is to recognize and accept your own strengths. If you can learn to see and accept the truth of what others see and value in you then you become untouchable by unfair criticism and no one can tear you down. You are more than your job and your value as a human being is based on many things, but how your boss treats you is not one of them. You don't need to get hooked on Victoria’s approval! 

When working with clients who are stuck in toxic work environments, we, together, formulate an action plan designed to help find their inner strength.  Here are some examples: 

Career Journaling - build confidence by recording and tracking your accomplishments and progress.

Being your own hero - affirm how your personal values led you to a place of moving on.

Replacing Negative Self-Talk With Positive Self-Talk - it is important to notice the negative self-beatdowns, put a stop to them and, replace them with positive self-worth-building messages.

Reinvesting In Your Self-Worth - you have skills and are valuable; reinforce this self-belief by talking to others.

"Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom." –Aristotle

About Castle I Group

At Castle I Group, our mission is to provide a holistic approach to both personal and professional development. We are dedicated to partnering with individuals looking to navigate a work-life balance, explore a career transition, overcome ageism bias issues, as well as explore self-discovery. Through one on one coaching sessions, you will learn to create a positive mindset opening a path to clarity, empowerment, self-confidence and self-worth. Together we will create your journey of reaching your full potential!

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