SEASON ONE: EPISODE THREE
WHY ARE YOU CRYING? YOU’RE NOT READY FOR THIS: The Power Of Emotion & Authenticity At Work
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“I openly embrace my emotional nature, and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that. However, it's often challenging to reconcile this authenticity with the expectations of a corporate environment. Ironically, displays of anger, shouting, insults, name-calling, and even profanity may sometimes be tolerated or brushed aside, while shedding tears often becomes a line that most leaders won't cross. Strangely, it makes them uncomfortable and is unfairly viewed as a weakness, becoming a pretext for the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles. We will challenge this perception and discuss why embracing and expressing emotions in a healthy manner at work can boost productivity and enhance employee retention”. — Dawne Hanks
Embracing Emotions: A Journey from Fear to Connection
In the latest episode of our podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with my dear friend Karen Ayres, a seasoned professional in the optical industry. With over 30 years of experience, primarily at Oakley, Karen shared valuable insights into the power of relationships in business and the transformative impact of vision care.
From Veterinary Dreams to Optical Realities
Karen’s career path is as fascinating as it is inspiring. Originally, she aspired to be a veterinarian, but her journey took a different turn due to her squeamishness. She briefly pursued a teaching career, focusing on English and drama, but an early job with her optometrist father set her on a new trajectory. This experience ignited her passion for the optical industry, where she discovered her true calling: helping others see clearly. This journey resonated deeply with me as I reflected on my own experiences in the industry.
The Life-Changing Impact of Vision Care
During our conversation, we delved into the profound effects of vision on people's lives. Karen emphasized that the optical industry is about more than just selling eyewear; it’s about enhancing the quality of life. She shared poignant stories from her time at Oakley, where the focus on helping everyone from athletes to everyday drivers reminded her of the real-world impact of their work.
The Emotional Weight of Public Speaking
We then shifted gears to discuss a topic that resonates with many: the emotional challenges of public speaking. I opened up about my struggles with stage fright and the vulnerability that comes with sharing my voice. My first experience on stage ended in tears, but it ultimately paved the way for my growth.
Karen’s supportive perspective highlighted a crucial truth: emotions are an intrinsic part of the human experience. We both acknowledged that the nervousness, laughter, and even tears contribute to our authenticity. This dialogue allowed us to explore how our individual experiences shape our understanding of vulnerability, particularly in professional settings.
Finding Joy in Connection
Ultimately, our conversation underscored the significance of emotional connection in both our personal and professional lives. Whether through a shared laugh or a moment of vulnerability, these interactions enrich our experiences. I am grateful for friends like Karen, who inspire us to embrace our emotions and build meaningful connections.
Navigating Emotional Challenges
We also touched upon societal perceptions of emotional expression, particularly the stigma surrounding tears in the workplace. I shared my experiences of crying in front of my team, noting how humor sometimes masks deeper feelings. While my team often teases me, I find that my tears reflect my passion and frustration—not manipulation. It’s a raw response to the overwhelming nature of life.
We explored the idea that emotional responses should be respected, despite the burden often falling on individuals to make others comfortable with their feelings. I’ve learned that it’s not my job to cater to anyone’s discomfort; my emotions are valid and reflect my genuine care for my work and colleagues.
The Ripple Effect of Vulnerability
A few years ago, after a particularly challenging work moment, I returned with a heartfelt apology for my earlier presentation. To my surprise, my vulnerability resonated with my team, transforming the energy in the room. This experience reinforced that emotional sensitivity can be a superpower, enabling us to foster understanding and connection.
As we continued our dialogue, we reflected on how emotions are often misunderstood in corporate environments. For women, tears can be viewed negatively, while men may not face the same scrutiny for emotional outbursts. The conversation emphasized the importance of creating a culture of emotional acceptance, where individuals can express themselves freely without fear of judgment.
The Changing Landscape of Workplace Success
As our discussion drew to a close, we acknowledged a significant shift occurring in today’s workplaces. Employees are increasingly advocating for a culture rooted in compassion, emotional acceptance, and mental well-being. This change is vital, especially as the current generation grapples with challenges like housing affordability and student debt.
Success is being redefined to prioritize humanity over mere productivity. Emotions, once seen as weaknesses, are now celebrated as strengths that foster collaboration and creativity. By allowing emotional expression and supporting one another, we can create more inclusive and productive environments.
Conclusion: The Future of Work is Compassionate
In a world where success is often measured by profit margins, the need for compassion and understanding in the workplace has never been clearer. Embracing emotional acceptance and mental health awareness is essential for sustainable success. The future of work lies in recognizing the value of each individual, fostering environments where emotions can be expressed freely, and ultimately prioritizing humanity in our corporate cultures.
Let’s embrace a new era of workplace dynamics—one where compassion takes the lead. Don’t miss out on future episodes.
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Guest: Karen Ayres | IG: @karenjayres
Host: Dawne Hanks | IG: @dawnehanks & @eliminate_girl_hate & @wait.holdup.what
Sound Editing & Mixing: Epiphany Recording Studio | IG: @epiphany_recording_studio