We Are Not a Family

The transformative guide to workplace dynamics that helps you understand yourself – and handle those around you. Is your boss acting like a critical parent? Does a closed-door meeting leave you consumed by paranoia? Are you compelled to overperform until you’re on the verge of burnout? You are not alone. We spend a third of our lives at work, yet we’re told to leave our emotions at the door. In We Are Not a Family, executive coach Nell Montgomery and psychotherapist Elisa Morris show us the truth: we don’t just bring our work experience to the office; we bring our entire emotional history. In this groundbreaking book, the authors identify eight workplace archetypes – from the Joker who entertains to hide deep insecurities and the Perfectionist driven by their inner criticism, to the Gladiator who seeks success at any cost. They show how understanding these patterns can transform every interaction in your professional life. You’ll learn how to: Build stronger relationships by seeing colleagues for who they really are Improve leadership skills by recognizing unconscious patterns in your team Boost self-awareness by identifying your own archetype formed in early childhood Handle conflict confidently without being overwhelmed by triggered feelings Packed with clinical insight, wit and a practical toolkit for every persona, We Are Not a Family will liberate you from outdated coping strategies and help you show up as the authentic, confident adult you long to become.