Emotions in the workplace

Are you in touch with your feelings?

Are you able to manage your emotions when faced with stressful situations in the workplace?

Do you know what you want from work…and are you sufficiently motivated to achieve this?

Are you sensitive to colleague’s feelings?

Are you able to manage working relationships?

For a number of years I was of the view that it was probably best not mix emotions and work.  With hindsight I see that this was totally unrealistic…especially because I did care about my work and the people I worked with.   Like a lot of people I kept myself very busy and thus avoided having to think about the feelings I was experiencing.  A recipe for stress if ever there was one!

Since then I have learned to be more mindful.  I now use a range of mindfulness techniques which enable me to acknowledge and explore my feelings, to be curious about where they come from and how they are manifesting in my body ( often tense shoulders), my thoughts and my actions.  With this increased awareness and understanding I find I am able to express myself more calmly and constructively…which prevents me from generating more stress for myself and others!

Do you think there is a place for emotions in business…or does it demonstrate a lack of professionalism?