Emotions are neither inherently “good” nor “bad”; they are natural responses that carry information about our interactions and context. Emotions like joy, pride, or gratitude often signal alignment, connection, and success, while emotions like frustration or disappointment can indicate challenges that require attention. Labeling emotions as "good" or "bad" can lead to suppression, which often restricts a leader’s ability to respond effectively. By learning to view emotions as information, leaders can better understand their team’s needs and foster a culture of open, constructive communication.
Small gaps between our self-perception and our reputation may go unnoticed, but larger ones can erode trust and credibility. Over time, consistent discrepancies damage both personal and organizational integrity.