The drama and politics in my office are so distracting that I have to work harder to make up for lost time

• Insider's latest work-advice column is about how to handle the drama seekers in your office.
• Experts recommend being direct and setting better boundaries.
• You need to make a concerted effort to preserve your well-being, one told Insider.

Returning to the office full time has been a rough transition. Not because I have to get up earlier or be away from my dog but because I have to leave the tranquility of home and be in the mix of gossip, tension, and interpersonal dynamics.  

 At my office, patience is in short supply. People are stressed — not surprising considering the undercurrent of pressure from management, but the result is that everyone seems way more reactive than what's necessary.