Emotions in the workplace an overview...

Now we have discussed both comfortable and uncomfortable emotions, they typically come in pairs:

• Happy vs Sad

• Confident vs Scared

• Playful vs Angry

• Loved vs Embarrassed
  

We like to portray those comfortable emotions more freely, while a majority of us don’t like to publicly express those uncomfortable emotions. Generally, this is because of our limited beliefs around lack of acceptance, perceived weakness, or what we believe to be social norms. However, not expressing our feelings and emotions can have several damaging effects on our mental, physical, and social well-being.

I would like you to think of a battery as I often use this analogy.

We have both positive and negative experiences which trigger an emotion, but my belief is we need this balance to keep the energy flowing. If we were always positive, we would experience burnout, and if we were always negative, we would be depressed. Therefore, a balance of the two is fundamental for a balanced life.

Sometimes we need external help to make sure our battery is charged and our energy is flowing.

By acknowledging and addressing both comfortable and uncomfortable emotions, we can lead more authentic and balanced lives.

1. Happy vs Sad

Happiness is crucial for a productive and collaborative work environment. When people feel happy, they engage more fully and contribute creatively, helping teams thrive. On the flip side, sadness, while often avoided in professional settings, can serve as a moment of reflection and growth. It’s essential to create space for both emotions in the workplace, allowing individuals to process their feelings without fear of judgment.

2. Confident vs Scared

Confidence is a driving force in leadership, decision-making, and innovation. When we feel confident, we naturally take more ownership and perform at our best. Fear, however, also has its place. It challenges us to step out of our comfort zones, prepare more thoroughly, and become more resilient. Both confidence and fear can coexist, each pushing us to grow in different ways.

3. Playful vs Angry

Playfulness at work encourages creativity and fosters stronger team relationships. It helps break down barriers, making the workplace more relaxed and open to innovation. Meanwhile, anger, when managed constructively, highlights underlying issues and drives necessary changes. Both emotions, in the right context, can contribute to better teamwork and problem-solving.

4. Loved vs Embarrassed

Feeling loved in the workplace means feeling valued and appreciated. This sense of belonging increases loyalty and engagement. Embarrassment, while uncomfortable, can teach us valuable lessons if we allow it to. Owning up to mistakes and learning from them builds resilience and strengthens relationships over time.

Conclusion

The juxtaposed emotions we've discussed—Happy vs Sad, Confident vs Scared, Playful vs Angry, and Loved vs Embarrassed—are integral to how we function at work. While comfortable emotions often dominate, it’s the uncomfortable ones that can lead to significant growth and development. By recognising and accepting the full range of emotions, we create work environments that are more authentic, supportive, and balanced. Both the highs and lows have a role in keeping us energised and engaged in our work.