They are out there.  Yelling, controlling, taking credit for your work and playing favorites. In fact, 36 percent of American workers have a boss they described as “dysfunctional” or horrible.  What makes a boss horrible?

• Bad temper
• Physical Threats
• Impatient
• Indecisive
• Over-dramatic
• Takes credit for others work
• Unfair
• Disrespectful

Employees that work for these bosses fear retaliation and feel bullied.  They often remain in these positions because no one wants to risk making them angry by bringing up their flaws. So everyone loses.  Self-care is critical to survival.  So get enough sleep, eat well, practice relaxation exercises like yoga or meditation and seek support from family and friends. This won’t change how your boss acts, it will help you to feel better about yourself and enable you to cope better with the stress and negative emotions when you are at work.

Horrible bosses are often the reason people leave jobs and companies they like.  And it’s not enough to be a decent boss.  A young professional who was ready to leave her job, even though her boss was a good boss – he wasn’t a GREAT boss.  He had not shown any interest in her development and she couldn’t see a path for growth.  A new boss arrived and this women stayed because her new boss was a true leader who told her if you want to be in my position one day, I will help you get there.

A great boss inspires, teaches, protects, challenges and removes obstacles.  They create an environment where it is safe for people to take risks and learn as they grow.  More than anything, a great boss cares.

The best bosses have teams that perform better, are retained better, are happier — they do everything better.  Let’s raise the bar and become the best bosses we can be.

Find more tips on being a great boss on our facebook album – The ABC’s of Leadership.