The Corporate Cowshed

Understanding the Emotional Landscape of Business

Imagine you have spent hours reading about farming. You have digested books describing every aspect of agriculture, flipped through copies of Farmers Weekly, and studied photos of different breeds of cows.

None of this prepares you for the stink that greets you the moment you enter a cowshed. In other words, for reality.

In business, knowing the theory is not the same as understanding the reality. Carl Jung once described theory and reality as similar to someone who has only read about cows, being shocked by the stink of a cowshed. This is a great way to think about working in an organisation.?

Immersing yourself in the latest business book, pursuing an MBA, and reading every article in the Harvard Business Review will provide you with a wealth of knowledge, but it will not prepare you for the reality - the "emotional stink" and office politics that pervade any large corporate organisation.?

The emotional life of your organisation

The corporate world is more than just strategies and models; it is also about navigating the complex web of emotions, feelings, and politics that underpins every interaction, decision, and outcome.? How to do this is the theme of my forthcoming book, ‘The Emotional Life of Organisations.’

To succeed in the corporate world, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience is essential. Here are three actionable tips to help you navigate the complex landscape of emotions and office politics:

• Seek out mentors who have extensive experience in your industry and can provide guidance on navigating the "emotional stink" of the workplace.
• Practice self-awareness by regularly reflecting on your emotional reactions to workplace events and learning to manage them effectively.
• Develop your emotional sensitivity by actively listening to and observing your colleagues, and striving to understand their perspectives and motivations.

Remember that theoretical knowledge is important, but practical application is what matters. Fear, resentment, or confusion are common obstacles to implementation. These feelings are the corporate equivalent of the stink in the cowshed. A strong understanding of the emotional and political landscape will distinguish you as a successful leader in your organisation.?