Excellence as a Threat: Psychological Safety, Emotional Intelligence & the Dilemma of the High Performer.

Posted May 14, 2025

The high performers are not always rewarded.

Sometimes… they get shut down.

You're exceeding expectations. Making an impact. Building a reputation.

Something does not feel right.

You find yourself wondering: Is it me?

usually—it's not your performance that's the problem.

It is how your success makes someone else feel.

When they lack emotional intelligence or work in psychologically unsafe spaces, they might see competence as a competition. And rather than supported, you’re quietly (or not-so-quietly) pushed to the side.

Here are 7 signs that your boss might find you a threat—and how you might safeguard your self-confidence and job:

1. The Control Trap

You’re micromanaged and others are given freedom.

Action: Establish relationships throughout the company. Develop your influence with more than one gatekeeper.

2. The Information Freeze

You're the last one to hear. Critical updates pass you by.

Action: Establish your own sources—peer conversations, collaborative workspaces, and team huddles.

3. Credit Confusion

Your personal victories are somehow labeled as "team efforts."

Action: Have a "Brag Book." Document your contributions and your impact in writing.

4. The Challenge of Expertise

You have your expertise questioned or second-guessed in public forums.

Action: Take a fact-first approach. Let the facts speak for themselves.

5. Strategic Isolation

You're left out of essential meetings or decisions "accidentally."

Action: Take the initiative to contribute to public projects that highlight your skills.

6. The Performance Paradox

Your review does not justify your outcome.

Action: Get third-party validation. Testimonials from clients and peers carry more weight.

7. The Block of Growth

Promotions or stretch possibilities continually "fall through the cracks."

Action: Develop your own career growth. Consider lateral positions, certifications, or public speaking gigs.

Remember: Their insecurity is not your ceiling.

You don't have to shrink to make others feel at ease.

You can guard your peace, maintain your momentum, and continue to show up—on your own terms.

Let's continue the discussion:

Have you ever witnessed these dynamics in the workplace?

Anyone struggling with this right now should focus on what they still have.

We maintain the doors of conversation and psychological safety open here at the Excel to Elevate, LLC.

#PsychologicalSafety #EmotionalIntelligence #Leadership #HighPerformers #CareerGrowth #WorkplaceWellness #ExcelToElevate