Getting older, or maybe just because the world has dramatically changed in a so short time, not even allowing people to adapt to these changes, and also by mistakes, I tried to accept that work shall remain strictly professional, devoid of personal deep connections.
Many, just check LinkedIn posts and contents, argue that a company is not a family, and in many respects, they are right. Businesses exist to achieve goals, meet targets, and increase profits while we never truly leave our families behind, nor can we be "fired" by them. Family is a constant presence in our lives; it’s a full-time commitment, not a 40 hours commitment, as job shall be.
But, what I learned is that the importance of embracing our humanity within work relationships cannot be overstated. It’s crucial to cultivate an environment where empathy reigns, active listening is practiced, and genuine and honest support is rendered during tough times.
I had the privilege of experiencing this deeply human workplace dynamic when I worked at Sky Italia. My colleagues became my sanctuary during personal crises, transforming my perception of what it meant to be part of a team. Together, we didn’t just co-exist; we grew, celebrated milestones, and navigated life’s unpredictability side by side. Witnessing events like birthdays anniversaries, marriages and births within our circle brought joy that transcended mere professional interactions.
When life threw challenges my way, it was the understanding and kindness of my team that acted as my lifeline.
Life is unpredictable. One moment you’re in peace, and the next, you could find yourself grappling with profound personal loss.
In 2016, my world was shaken by a personal tragedy involving a loved one who attempted suicide. My Company afforded me the luxury of being present in the hospital for an entire month without financial penalty, which was a testament to the company’s commitment to its employees’ emotional well-being. I will always be gratful to Sky italia for this.
A few months later, I faced another profound loss with the passing of my father.
Three years further down the line, and only few months before Covid changed our lives, in a twist of fate, I faced one of the darkest periods of my life, and I can assure I had many in my life.
My partner, who I believed would always be by my side, abruptly ended our relationship in few days, leaving me alone.
Within this turmoil, my workplace emerged as my only anchor. The office evolved from being just a place where I performed tasks to a refuge where I could express my vulnerabilities without fear of judgment. The tears I shed were integral to my healing process, a raw display of emotion that, most of people would say, should have no place in a polished professional setting. Yet, rather than stigmatizing my grief, my colleagues embraced me, enveloped me in their compassion, supported me, in every possible way, and reminded me that I wasn’t alone and above all they reminded me that crying isn’t a sign of weakness but rather a natural response to facing significant life challenges.
There is a pervasive belief that keeping emotional distance is synonymous with professionalism.
This perspective suggests that revealing too much about ourselves can lead to manipulation or hurt.
While there is merit to maintaining certain boundaries, this notion often creates a culture of isolation within organizations.
After my tenure at Sky Italia, I tried to adhere to this philosophy and found that erecting walls led to sterile, uninspired working environments. The fear of vulnerability confined me within rigid boundaries. Coworkers ceased to be people and became mere figures on a screen, disconnected from one another.
To those who argue that sharing emotions in the workplace compromises professionalism, I can say that yet my experience tells a different story.
Authentic connections based on empathy foster higher employee engagement and resilience.
A workplace should not merely be a checklist of tasks; it should also be a supportive ecosystem where employees feel valued as whole persons, not just cogs in the corporate machine.
The journey of rebuilding my life post-separation wasn’t easy, yet it was made substantially lighter by the love and support of my team. They didn't shy away from my emotions; instead, they leaned in, offering their ears and hearts. Their presence made every day a step toward recovery, continually reminding me that even when the universe feels overwhelmingly cruel, it has a strange way of guiding us toward real happiness and fulfillment (that finally arrived in my life after that experience), albeit through painful lessons.
But during my performance review the following year, my manager commented on how my personal affairs impacted the group. My manager said that those emotions and personal struggles must be kept out of the office. This to avoid impact on people and business. Well, this might be right, but how is it possible not to be impacted by knowing that someone that spends every day in our same place is facing a difficult time or a tragedy?
Yes, it is true that the world doesn’t pause for individual tragedies. When I travel, I’m reminded that we are just one story among billions, surrounded by countless happy and tragic experiences.
Yet, it’s essential to acknowledge that these stories matter, and they shape our collective existence.
But why do we fear showing our true selves in the workplace? Is it the worry of being deemed unprofessional or inadequate? Or is it simply a lack of understanding that others may be going through their own struggles?
We all have burdens to carry. Life can throw unexpected trials our way, and often, those struggles intersect with our professional lives. When we allow ourselves to share our vulnerabilities, within reason, we create an environment where others feel safe to do the same. Such transparency can lead to deeper bonds among colleagues and foster teamwork driven by understanding rather than mere obligation.
When I think back to my time at Sky Italia, I realize that my group’s support was pivotal.
Empathy creates a dual benefit: it fosters individual resilience while also building collective strength. When we support one another during trying times, we contribute to the development of a robust, united workforce. Through shared experiences, teams can deepen their understanding of each other, paving the way for improved communication and seamless collaboration.
So, how do we strike a balance between professionalism and genuine human connection? Here are some key takeaways:
1. Creating an environment where employees, freelancers, and clients feel safe expressing their thoughts and worries. Fostering an environment where connection is not only welcomed but actively sought out.
2. When someone opens up, practice deep listening. Validate their feelings and offer comfort rather than rushing to solutions. Sometimes, simply being present is all that’s necessary.
3. Never underestimating the power of small acts of kindness. A simple message or a coffee together can profoundly impact someone who is going through a tough time.
4. Not hesitating to share your own experiences. Being vulnerable encourages others to reciprocate, fostering deeper connections.
5. When discussions about emotional distance arise, speak up for a workplace culture that champions mental health alongside productivity.
6. Recognizing and celebrating both professional successes and personal victories. These moments create an inclusive atmosphere that values the totality of the human experience. Supporting one-another genuinely is the key!
In conclusion, while a business may not function like a family, it doesn’t mean we have to restrict our interactions to cold professionalism. Embracing the human aspect of work relationships brings empathy and authenticity into the forefront of our corporate interactions.
Let’s dare to be vulnerable and cultivate environments that nurture emotional connections. Being human at work transcends merely completing tasks; it revolves around sharing life’s journey with one another. Fostering such an atmosphere strengthens the sense of belonging, a critical component when individuals encounter new opportunities.
Reflecting on my journey, I realize that if it hadn’t been for the too long Covid lock downs that obliged everyone to remote working, I might never have transitioned from Sky Italia because that was my second home and family and there was a very strong engagement.
As we continue to face uncertainties and challenges, let’s commit to being each other’s pillars of strength.
Together, we can ensure that our workplaces act as safe havens where empathy and humanity flourish.
Personally, I am ready to embrace others’ vulnerabilities and share my own when necessary.
