Are You Overthinking Your Boss’s Reaction?

It’s easy to assume the worst when things don’t go as expected. Especially at work, where we all want recognition and a pat on the back when we crush it. But here’s the catch: What you think is happening and what’s actually happening can be two very different things. 

Let’s say the team is buzzing about how well you did, but your boss? She’s giving you radio silence. Instantly, your brain goes into overdrive, crafting a masterpiece of “I’m unappreciated” fiction. Maybe your boss hates you. Maybe they’re plotting to replace you with a robot. Maybe it’s just you – not good enough, not fast enough, not whatever enough.

Pause. Breathe. Is this really the truth? Or could it be that your boss is buried under a pile of their own headaches and hasn’t even noticed the spectacular win you just pulled off?

It’s way too easy to make assumptions and treat them like facts. You’re not alone—we all do it! One of the sneakiest lies we tell ourselves is that everyone is constantly thinking about us: what we’re doing, how well we’re performing, whether or not we’re impressive. But this is simply not true.

Your supervisor might be in the middle of managing a crisis, drowning in meetings, or dealing with the 157 other things currently on their plate. And that’s the positive assumption you should lean into.

Shift From Assumption to Curiosity

Try assuming positive intent. Instead of thinking “My boss doesn’t care,” flip it to “My boss might have something else going on.” When you approach situations with curiosity instead of judgment, you open up the opportunity for understanding.

• Self-check: Before your mind spirals out of control, ask yourself, “Is this fact or is this my interpretation of the situation?”

• Seek viewpoints: Instead of assuming your work went unnoticed, check in with your boss. A simple, “Hey, I wanted to touch base on that project. How did you think it went?” shows initiative and opens the door for feedback. 

• Ask questions: Have you ever thought to check-in with your boss? True relationships are two-way streets. You might just find out new ways to help your supervisor and the credit union as a whole by simply checking in more.

It’s important to call out that some lies we tell ourselves are so ingrained they feel normal: things like “I’m not good enough” or “I’ll never get noticed.” These limiting beliefs keep us stuck in a mental rut, fabricating more drama than reality TV.

To break free, start by recognizing these thoughts for what they are: just thoughts, not facts. Remember, just because your boss is busy doesn’t mean you aren’t valued. So next time your boss is silent, don’t jump to conclusions – lean into curiosity instead. Who knows, that praise might just be waiting for you!

Mastering Clear Communication

Clear communication is key to your credit union’s success. Check out this worksheet that dives into the four main communication mediums – verbal, nonverbal, written, and visual – and how to adapt them to the diverse, personal styles on your team, from outgoing to task-oriented and more.