Emotional Agility: Key to Workplace Success

Why Emotional Agility Matters in the Workplace

In today's fast-paced work environments, emotional agility has become a critical skill for success. Harvard psychologist Susan David, author of Emotional Agility, explains why suppressing emotions harms both individuals and organizations.

The Myth of 'Good' vs. 'Bad' Emotions

• Common misconception: Joy = good, anger = bad
• Reality: All emotions provide valuable data
• Workplace impact: Avoiding difficult emotions leads to:
  • Lower well-being
  • Increased mental distress
  • Reduced innovation and growth

"When people label emotions as good or bad, they become stuck rather than agile." - Susan David

How Emotional Agility Drives Business Success

The Connection Between Emotions and Performance

1. Innovation requires risk-taking (and the discomfort of potential failure)
2. True collaboration involves conflict (and managing related emotions)
3. Organizational change often starts with anger (at injustice or inefficiency)

Historical Roots of Emotional Suppression at Work

• Gendered education systems prioritized logic over emotion
• Industrial Revolution mindset focused only on measurable outputs
• Behaviorist psychology ignored complex emotional experiences

Developing Emotional Agility: 3 Key Strategies

1. Practice Self-Compassion

• Why it works: Creates psychological safety for growth
• Try this: Place hand on heart during stressful moments
• Workplace application: Encourages risk-taking and honest communication

2. Observe Without Judgement

• Step 1: Notice thoughts/emotions as data, not directives
• Step 2: Ask "What values do I want to embody here?"
• Step 3: Choose actions aligned with those values

3. Adopt a 'Helicopter View'

• Technique: Imagine advising yourself as a wise mentor would
• Benefit: Gains perspective on challenging situations
• Example: Handling customer complaints more effectively

Implementing Emotional Agility in Your Organization

• Leadership training: Teach managers emotional awareness skills
• Psychological safety: Create spaces for authentic expression
• Performance metrics: Include emotional intelligence indicators

"The human skills that can't be automated will become our greatest workplace assets." - Susan David

Ready to develop your emotional agility? Listen to the full WorkWell podcast episode for more expert insights.