This podcast discusses the acceptability of different emotions in the workplace, including crying and anger. They emphasize the importance of leaders being conscious of their words and actions. It explores the positive impact of embracing emotions on productivity, relationships, and satisfaction. The podcast also discusses creating a safe space for emotions and supporting employee mental health. Strategies for managing emotions in the workplace are explored, including clear guidelines and a supportive environment.
Creating a safe and welcoming space for emotions at work allows for vulnerability and realness, fostering a supportive environment and enhancing connection and creativity.
Engaging employees in developing a collaborative policy on emotions at work ensures alignment with company values, fosters a sense of ownership, and supports emotional well-being.
Deep dives
Creating a Safe Environment for Emotions at Work
In this podcast episode, the hosts discuss the importance of creating a safe and welcoming space for emotions in the workplace. They address the discomfort that can arise when someone starts crying and why it's important to shift from viewing crying as something negative to something that allows for vulnerability and realness. The hosts emphasize that while individuals are responsible for their own emotional responses, leaders also play a role in creating a supportive environment. They highlight the significance of conscious and considerate communication and the importance of not blaming oneself or others for emotional reactions. Additionally, they suggest that leaders should seek support from coaches or mentors to gain a better understanding of complex situations and to create a culture where emotions are acknowledged and respected.
Context-specific Approach to Feelings at Work
The hosts recognize that the acceptability of expressing emotions at work can be context-specific. They share personal experiences of working as a coach and how crying is often seen as a safe outlet for clients. They also acknowledge that as a coach, they hold space for their clients' emotions without feeling emotionally pulled into it. The hosts stress the importance of understanding the specific needs of different roles within the company and accommodating those needs accordingly. They emphasize the value of providing appropriate support or resources, such as coaches or mental health care, to help employees navigate challenging emotions. It is crucial for leaders to be explicit about the company's stance on emotions at work, offering consistency and creating an environment where emotions are validated.
Creating a Collaborative Policy on Emotions
The hosts suggest that companies with established teams can engage everyone in developing a collaborative policy on emotions at work. By involving employees in the discussion, leaders can gain insight into their experiences from previous workplaces and use that knowledge to inform their company's approach. They encourage open and honest conversations about boundaries, appropriateness, and the level of support needed during major life events. This inclusive approach fosters a sense of ownership and ensures that the company's response to emotions at work is aligned with its values. The hosts conclude by highlighting the importance of building a high-performing company that supports its team members in all aspects, including their emotional well-being.
Some feelings are welcome at work, while others are seen as unprofessional. Is it okay to cry at the office? How about yelling out of anger?
If your company has unwritten rules or norms about "good" or "bad" feelings, you might be preventing people from being as connected and creative as they can be.
In this week's episode of the podcast you will discover:
How to stay connected with people regardless of their emotional responses to the moment
Why feelings can be such tricky territory at work, and how to get better at navigating them
Why a deliberate approach to handling feelings at the workplace will help your business thrive for the long term