Instead, I'm talking about the excess emotional baggage that people bring to work. There are moments when we would all like to levy a fine:
- $50 for bringing personal insecurities to work
- $25 for failing to leave the latest family conflagration curbside
- $100 for packing interoffice, interpersonal conflict
Ludicrous? Yes, it is. Instead, we need to positively deal with such issues on a daily basis. As opposed to unrealistic directives such as, "Leave your personal crap at home," we need to recognize these as coaching opportunities with which to build a better team member and stronger workplace.
First and foremost, listening is incredibly important to helping people unwind. Often I have found that people just need an ear - and if they pick you, as their leader, that's probably the best choice they could make. Their conversation should be safe and confidential. It also provides you with additional information about the individual that will help you guide that person to a fuller, more rewarding career.
In fact, I find it is almost impossible to completely differentiate between an individual's personal and professional lives. . .and as such, it is impossible to bring a team member to a fuller fruition of their potential without dealing with the personal baggage that, let's face it, we all carry.
Emotional intelligence should be engaged as the strongest skill set that allows you to commiserate, draw distinctions and help the individual gain new perspectives. Your sensitivity and your wisdom is relied upon by all team members to help them get through the difficult issues in their lives.
Excess baggage? We all have it. Dealing with it positively, using emotional intelligence, will make you a stronger leader and provide all with a better team environment.
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My book, "Courageous Questions, Confident Leaders" is available for e-readers, tablets and PCs on Amazon Kindle.
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