Slaying the Workplace Energy Vampires

Of course, nursing is hard work, and we all have days when a dark cloud seems to hang over everything we do. There’s no need to sharpen your wooden stake just because a colleague happens to be in a bad mood every once in a while.

Here are three telltale signs for recognizing true Energy Vampires:

◗ They’re ALWAYS gloomy, even when things are going well.

◗ They dismiss or belittle everyone’s victories and accomplishments (including their own).

◗ Dealing with them inevitably makes YOU feel worse.

Don’t Get “Bitten”

If you’ve spotted Energy Vampires in your workplace, you need to employ the right tactics to protect you from their “bite.”

1.  Avoid their stare.

When Energy Vampires have your full attention, they will lure you into the vortex of their misery. Your best bet, therefore, is to minimize interaction so you don’t get drawn in. Limit your communication with them to current work (patient care, assignments, etc.) and set a clock on your interactions.

When they start talking, interrupt politely and say something like, “I only have 30 seconds.” When that time is up, excuse yourself and walk away.

2.  Don’t try to fix them.

It’s tempting to try to “stake” Energy Vampires, confronting their sour behavior and its impact on coworkers and patients. Unfortunately, this may just make things worse.

Remember, most Energy Vampires make people miserable because THEY’RE miserable. They may see your call-out as a sign that you’re out to get them, especially if they already have a persecution complex. If they resist your attempts to cheer them up, criticizing them probably won’t help either.

3.  Flip the switch.

Energy Vampires’ goal is to spread their misery to others. Don’t give in. If they complain or downplay someone else’s accomplishments, counter the negativity with something positive.

This includes being as nice as possible to them without being patronizing. Simply smile, say good morning, compliment others in front of them, say good things about the patients and the unit, and avoid any negative comments. (This technique is effective not only with negative colleagues, but also with patients and families. It really does work!)

Set Boundaries

I know from personal experience how draining Energy Vampires can be. I once worked with a perpetually negative colleague who sometimes managed to “trap” me in the break room or supply closet for 20 minutes or more with her vitriol and bad vibes. That was time I could have used to educate my patients or finish my charting so I could get home to dinner with my family.

Ultimately, Energy Vampires only have power over us if we let them. Guard your time and well-being. Don’t let an Energy Vampire suck you in!

In this Article: Bullying and Incivility