When do emotions at work become a problem?
Read Time: 2 mins
When Emotions at Work Become Problematic
Understanding when emotions at work interfere with productivity is crucial. They influence our day-to-day activities and interactions. Emotions can drive us forward and motivate us. However, if not managed well, they can also lead to challenges. Understanding when emotions interfere with our work is crucial. It helps maintain a healthy and productive environment. Let’s explore when emotions might become problematic in a work context.
Emotions That Overstay Their Welcome
Occasionally feeling stressed or down is part of any job. But when these feelings linger and affect your work or enthusiasm, it’s a sign they might be hanging around too long. For instance, feeling drained weeks after a big project could indicate more than just temporary exhaustion.
When Emotions Block Your Path
Sometimes, feelings make it hard to do your job. Anxiety might stop you from speaking up in meetings. A lack of motivation could be so strong that focusing on tasks becomes difficult. These are clear signals that your emotions are getting in the way.
Feeling Much More Than What’s Typical
It’s normal to feel a certain level of nervousness or excitement about work challenges. However, experiencing extreme stress over everyday tasks is not. Nor is disproportionate worry about work interactions. In these cases, your emotional responses might be more intense than what most people feel.
Worrying About Physical Reactions
Have you ever been so nervous that your hands shook during a presentation? Then found yourself worrying more about your shaking than the presentation? Sometimes, we misinterpret normal nervous reactions as something more serious. This misinterpretation can escalate our worry without reason.
Too Much, Too Little, or Unmanageable Emotions
- Too Much: Being overly frightened of new projects or excessively worried about colleagues’ opinions can be a sign. It might indicate your emotions are too amplified in the workplace.
- Too Little: Feeling detached from your work or colleagues suggests a problem. Not caring about projects you used to be passionate about means your emotions might be dialled down too low.
- Hard to Manage: If you swing from feeling on top of the world to deep despair after a minor setback, it’s a concern. Struggling to keep your emotions in check, leading to conflict or withdrawal, signals you’re finding emotions hard to manage.
In the workplace, as in life, understanding and managing our emotions is key to success and well-being. Recognising when emotions are becoming problematic is the first step toward addressing them. Whether it’s seeking support, finding strategies for managing stress in the workplace, or learning to navigate workplace dynamics effectively, handling our emotions wisely leads to a more fulfilling, enjoyable, and productive work life.
To learn more about managing your emotions at work, check out Molly West’s Big Feelings on The Psychology Podcast. To explore the power of career coaching and the difference it can make in your career, contact me at Skill and Will.
