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How Workplace Gaslighting Fuels Burnout and What to Do About It
Description
In this episode of The Burnout Podcast, Lucas and Luna dive into a specific and under-discussed driver of workplace exhaustion: gaslighting. Drawing on a 2024 survey by the Workplace Bullying Institute which found that 38% of employees have experienced a form of psychological manipulation at work, they explore why being told 'you're too sensitive' or 'that never happened' can be more draining than a heavy workload. Lucas breaks down the three most common gaslighting patterns—the memory challenge, the competence underminer, and the reality denier—and shares concrete scripts for how to document and counter each one. Luna pushes back on the common advice to 'just leave,' arguing that for many, the gaslighting is subtle enough to make them question their own judgment. Together, they offer a practical three-step framework: externalize the event, calibrate with a trusted colleague, and set a clear boundary. If you've ever left a meeting feeling confused about what actually happened, this episode will help you see the pattern and protect your energy.