Mastering Your Emotions at Work: The Key to Thriving in Your Career

Let’s get real—success at work isn’t just about talent or hard work. It’s about how well you navigate the human side of business. And that? That comes down to becoming intelligent about your emotions.

Ever walked into a room and felt the tension before anyone said a word? Or worked with someone who just gets people, making everything smoother and more productive? That’s emotional intelligence in action. And here’s the kicker—it’s a skill, not a trait. You can build it. You can master it. And when you do, you change the game for yourself and those around you.

How Emotionally Intelligent Are You?

Before we dive in, take a moment. Read these three questions and answer honestly:

1. When you get tough feedback, do you: a) Shut down or get defensive? b) Process it later, but struggle in the moment? c) Stay open and curious, even if it stings?
2. A coworker is unusually quiet in a meeting. Do you: a) Ignore it—it’s not your business. b) Check in after, but assume they’ll be fine. c) Gently ask if they’re okay and offer support?
3. When you’re overwhelmed, do you: a) Snap at people or withdraw? b) Push through but feel exhausted? c) Recognize the signs and adjust before burnout hits?

If you answered mostly A’s, it’s time to start becoming more intelligent about your emotions. B’s mean you’re aware but have room to grow. C’s? You’re already leveling up—keep going!

Emotions, Upgraded: 3 Uncommon Ways to Get Ahead

Here at The Keitt Institute, we help leaders every day learn how to use their emotions to their advantage. Managing your emotions isn’t just about keeping it together—it’s about understanding how your emotions work for you instead of against you. Here are three fresh, unexpected ways to do just that:

1. Narrate Your Emotions Like a Sports Announcer Instead of just feeling emotions, try describing them—out loud or in writing. “I’m feeling frustrated because that meeting felt unproductive.” Why? Naming emotions makes them less overwhelming and easier to manage. It’s science.
2. Play the “What Else Could Be True?” Game When someone irritates you (late emails, short responses), don’t assume the worst. Ask, “What else could be true?” Maybe they’re overwhelmed. Maybe they just got bad news. Maybe it’s not about you at all. This shift builds empathy and helps you respond instead of react.
3. Create a ‘Reset Ritual’ for Stressful Moments Ever feel your emotions hijack a situation? Create a quick reset ritual. It could be a deep breath, stepping outside, or listening to a 30-second song clip. Having a go-to reset trick keeps you in control, no matter what’s happening.

Becoming Intelligent About Your Emotions = Career Superpower

Mastering your emotions isn’t just about being nice. It’s about showing up as your best self, handling challenges with grace, and building relationships that fuel your success. The good news? It’s 100% learnable.

So, what’s one small shift you can make today to become more emotionally intelligent? Drop your thoughts in the comments! If you’re ready to grow alongside other powerful women and get real, intentional support for what’s next, I’d love for you to join me in PowerHer?—a space designed for your evolution. Join here.