Adaptability should not mean obedience to toxic work cultures

We often talk about adaptability as one of the most prized individual qualities in the workplace. Yet, things go wrong when we confuse it with obedience to toxic work cultures. It’s time to tap into our ability for transformation.

We often talk about adaptability as one of the most prized individual qualities in the workplace. People should be able to adapt to difficult circumstances, thrive under uncertain conditions, and be malleable with a diverse range of stakeholders.

In essence, individuals demonstrate adaptability when they change to fit new circumstances without showing real difficulty. Yet, underneath the positive language surrounding adaptability, there is a hidden reality that is less talked about.

Individuals are often encouraged to adapt to toxic work environments plagued by overwork, high stress, poor management, and aggressive communication. These are usually work contexts marked by a lack of psychological safety for employees to voice their concerns. Adaptability is simply required of individuals in order to comply with what is demanded of them, without questioning the dysfunctional work practices that shape their jobs.

This encourages a mindset that sees the individual as primarily responsible for overcoming difficulties and problems, without…