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Summary of Question:	How To Deal W/ A Difficult Boss
Category:	General Sikhism
Date Posted:	Friday, 8/31/2001 8:44 PM MDT

Sat Sri Akalji

This question do not relate to Sikhism but rather on morality and ethics.

If you have a difficult boss who is extremely unreasonable in his behaviour and just cannot be reasoned with, however hard you try. He is megalomic and thinks that he is very powerful. He is totally not afraid of anyone, not even GOD.

In such a situation, is it OK to write to the highest level in the organisation, explaining the situation and asking for help without letting them know your name because we do not know the reaction of the higher ups. We need help but are also afraid that we may be victimised as the CEO may cover it up. Others in the company also know of our boss's behaviour towards us and sympathise with us. But no one dares to bring it up to the CEO about our immediate boss.

We know that it is not right to write anonymously as it is carrying tals. But in our case, we only wish to tell the truth and hope for an investigation.

What should we do in such a situation?

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REPLY
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Sat Siri Akaal--

I do not have a problem with you trying to protect your means of making a living. If you do this letter, do it without attachment to results (i.e., don't expect a better situation). At least you have attempted a protest. Remember that this person's bosses put him there for a reason, and frankly, might not give a damn how he treats those under him.

It might be helpful to document this person's abuses. You could also try more forceful means if you think that, for example, a work stoppage or strike would cause positive change.

Be aware that you might have serious repercussions of a 'manhunt' for the
one(s) who write the letter. If you sign it, you could lose your job. The real answer might be to be grateful to Waheguru for showing you all what you do not want to have in your life in terms of a boss, and seek new employment elsewhere.

The people in our life are there for a reason, to show us how to be and how NOT to be. Consider this a lesson on how NOT to be.

Guru ang sang,
-DKK