By Naazi Morad
Have you ever walked into your workplace feeling unseen, unheard, or undervalued? Have you watched someone receive a promotion, a salary increase, or recognition — not because of their skill, dedication, or merit, but because of who they know? If so, you are not alone. Many employees, despite years of experience, hard work, and loyalty, have faced the sting of favoritism, unfair labour practices, and workplace bullying.
For over thirty years, I have observed, guided, and supported people navigating the complex world of HR and industrial relations. I have seen talented individuals feel invisible, demoralized, and even driven to the edge of burnout because of workplace victimization. Sometimes it is subtle: a colleague repeatedly overlooked, a manager whispering words that undermine confidence, a project reassigned without explanation. Other times, it is blatant: bullying, public humiliation, or decisions that defy fairness and transparency.
Workplace injustice comes in many forms — from unfair labour practices, favoritism, and constructive dismissal to full-blown bullying. The common thread is the emotional and psychological toll it takes on employees. People start questioning their abilities, doubting their worth, and wondering why excellence and commitment do not always lead to recognition.
Imagine an employee who has poured their heart into a project for months, only to see it credited to someone else because they are closer to management. Or consider a team where promotions are consistently awarded to those with personal connections rather than competence. The impact is real: frustration, resentment, and a feeling that the workplace is no longer a place of growth but a minefield of politics and bias.
But reflection is key. The first step in navigating these challenges is to acknowledge the reality without letting it define your self-worth. Victimization at work is not a measure of your talent or dedication. It is a reflection of organizational culture, power dynamics, and sometimes, plain human bias.
Understanding your rights and the frameworks designed to protect employees is essential. Fair labour practices, constructive dismissal guidelines, and anti-bullying policies exist to provide recourse. Documenting incidents, seeking support from HR or unions, and exploring professional guidance can make a real difference. But beyond the procedural, there is a personal journey: cultivating resilience, maintaining professionalism, and choosing when and how to respond without letting the workplace steal your peace.
Reflect on this: your career is a journey, and every challenge faced is an opportunity to understand your boundaries, values, and personal strength. Skill, dedication, and integrity matter, even when systems falter. Recognizing unfair treatment, while painful, can illuminate what you need to thrive — whether that is developing coping strategies, seeking new opportunities, or holding space for yourself within the current environment.
Closing for this session: take a moment to breathe and reflect on your own experiences. Ask yourself — where have I been silent when I should have spoken? Where have I let fear or politics influence my actions? And most importantly, how can I take steps today to protect my well-being, assert my worth, and continue to grow despite challenges? Remember, the workplace does not define your value; your resilience, your integrity, and your dedication to your craft do.
Wellness Within Therapy
Supporting your growth, resilience, and wellbeing in every professional journey.
