“I am Happy on the Inside”: The Importance of Embracing a Range of Emotions as an Executive Assistant ?

The pursuit of happiness has become a significant aspect of personal and professional development. Countless self-help books, seminars, and motivational speakers promote the idea that maintaining a perpetual state of happiness should be the ultimate goal for success. However, it is essential to recognise that this perspective might not be entirely applicable, especially for executive assistants.The expectation to be happy all the time as an executive assistant can be unrealistic and potentially detrimental to one's well-being and performance.

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There's an enigma about my natural, relaxed facial expression – it seems to exude an aura of sadness. The origins of this puzzling perception remain elusive, seemingly attributed to the whims of genetics or perhaps even the ever-present gloom of Scottish weather.

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From my earliest days as a child, I've been met with the recurring chorus of "smile." My parents, teachers, and even my gran couldn't resist commenting on it. They'd quip that if the wind changed direction, my visage might be stuck that way forever. Amusing as it was, the apex of this cheerful commentary arrived one day as I strolled down Glasgow's famed Sauchiehall Street alongside Linda, my wife. It was then that an elderly gentleman, perched in a shop doorway with his meager belongings stashed in a plastic bag, looked up at me and uttered, "Aw come on son, Smile…it might never happen." The unexpectedness of the remark struck me almost as intensely as the fact that Linda had succumbed to a fit of laughter, falling to her knees. In that bewildering moment, I couldn't help but think, "Well, it just bl... happened."

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My retort was always a swift "But I am happy on the inside," a defence that seemed impervious to the external world's judgment. However, over time, a realisation gradually seeped in – that the contentment within wasn't always so apparent to others. It dawned on me that their perception relied on what was visible on the surface, and if I wished to bridge the gap between my internal joy and external expression, I'd have to adopt a new approach.

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This presented me with a curious challenge and I began to realise that actually you do not need to be happy all the time, in fact it is actually impossible. There are time when we need to embrace our different emotions.

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Presenting a facade of constant happiness can create a disconnect between an executive assistant's true emotions and their outward expression. This emotional dissonance can lead to increased stress, burnout, and even a sense of imposter syndrome. Authenticity in the workplace is crucial, allowing individuals to express a range of emotions genuinely. Sometimes, challenges and setbacks can be frustrating or disappointing, and acknowledging these feelings can foster a healthier emotional environment.

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Executive assistants often juggle a multitude of tasks, responsibilities, and personalities. Navigating through this complexity requires a wide range of emotions, including determination, focus, and empathy. Emotions such as concern or seriousness might be more appropriate when dealing with critical matters. Suppressing these emotions in favour of constant happiness could hinder the ability to address complex situations effectively.

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Experiencing a variety of emotions, including frustration or disappointment, can serve as catalysts for growth and improvement. These emotions can signal that changes or adjustments are needed in work processes or communication methods. Striving for happiness at all times might discourage the introspection required for personal and professional development.

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Challenges and setbacks are an inevitable part of any job. Embracing a range of emotions, including those that might not be pleasant, can help build emotional resilience. Learning how to manage and recover from negative emotions can contribute to enhanced emotional intelligence and a more well-rounded skill set.

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Communication is a cornerstone of success in any role. Expressing a diversity of emotions can aid in effective communication, as it allows for a more nuanced conveyance of thoughts and ideas. Sharing concerns or addressing conflicts directly, albeit not always in a state of happiness, fosters transparent and productive communication.

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Striving for perpetual happiness can blur the boundaries between work and personal life. It's essential for executive assistants to have the freedom to experience a range of emotions, allowing them to leave work-related stress behind and fully engage with their personal lives during their time off.

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The notion that one should be happy all the time as an executive assistant is unrealistic and counterproductive. Embracing a range of emotions is not a sign of weakness but a demonstration of authenticity, adaptability, and emotional intelligence.

The ability to navigate complex situations, communicate effectively, and grow personally and professionally hinges on acknowledging and managing various emotions.

As the role of an executive assistant continues to evolve, so should the understanding that emotional authenticity, rather than constant happiness, is the key to success and well-being.

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All of that said, while I still treasure the uniqueness of my default visage, I've come to realise that sometimes, sharing a smile with the world is a wonderful way to let that inner happiness radiate, even on the cloudiest of Scottish days.