Navigating Mixed Emotions in the Workplace
Photo by Kristel Velez on Unsplash
We often find ourselves in circumstances where we don't just feel one emotion, but many. And these emotions may conflict with one another. Getting married, having children, moving, and more can leave us with a kaleidoscope of feelings.
It's no different in the workplace. We often find ourselves on an emotional roller coaster when facing significant milestones. It's important for leaders to recognize and understand the mixed emotions that accompany various circumstances. By recognizing the diverse feelings people have, you can foster a supportive environment and provide guidance to help your people navigate them.
Let's take a look at a few common examples.
Onboarding
Starting a job marks the beginning of a new professional journey. People can experience emotions that range from excitement and enthusiasm to anxiety, overwhelm, and loneliness. As a leader, you can ease this transition by fostering a welcoming atmosphere, providing clear expectations, and offering support. Encouraging open communication channels and addressing concerns promptly can help alleviate anxiety and create a sense of hope and optimism among new team members.
Promotions
Promotions are often viewed as a testament to one's hard work and dedication. However, along with pride and satisfaction, people may feel afraid, worried, or even sad about what they are leaving behind. By acknowledging these mixed emotions in your team members, you can celebrate their achievements while providing reassurance and guidance to help manage their apprehensions. Open and transparent communication about new responsibilities and expectations can instill a sense of hope and confidence as they step into a new role. And simply knowing they don't have to hide feelings, like sadness, can be a comfort.
Celebrations
Celebrations are typically associated with happiness and satisfaction, but even seemingly happy moments can bring forth unexpected emotions, such as anxiety about future expectations. While embracing joy and accomplishment, be attentive to those who might feel a sense of loss or nostalgia or might be dealing with their own personal disappointments. As always, encouraging open dialogue and expressing empathy can help create a balanced emotional environment.
Navigating mixed emotions in the workplace is an essential aspect of leadership. By recognizing and addressing diverse feelings, you contribute not only to the individual well-being of your team members, but to creating a more resilient and cohesive team overall.