Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Boss

For workers who are unlucky enough to have a stressed-out and mean boss, there are a host of things you can try.

You can approach your manager and talk to him or her about their behavior. Sometimes people don't realize how their actions are hurting those around them.

Keep in mind that this can backfire and ignite an even bigger fire under a mean manager. So be sure to be diplomatic when you approach your boss, ask for a private meeting and do it at a time of day when work isn't crazy and there's a moment to throttle back a bit.

I'm also an advocate of going over a bad boss' head if the behavior starts to border on abusive. No one should ever have to take that from anyone.

And finally, there's always saying goodbye. I know this isn't the ideal option, especially in this economy, but your mental health sometimes has to trump financial health.

© 2008