Why People Don't Deliver?

The Simple Answer Is: They Can't.

This article will explore the seemingly simple answer, delving into how emotions and mental health profoundly affect workplace performance. It will also describe a complex landscape where emotional factors play a critical role.

For companies aiming for sustainability and growth, recognizing and addressing these realities is no longer an option — it is essential.

Introduction to Emotional Health in the Workplace

In today’s fast-paced business environment, emotional health is often overlooked, underestimated, or simply ignored. Yet, emerging data reveals a troubling oversight that could be undermining your company's potential. Recent studies indicate that approximately one in four Poles have been diagnosed with a mental disorder at some point in their lives, with potentially another quarter suffering undiagnosed. This is not just a national issue—across Europe, nearly 46% of individuals reported experiencing mental health issues in 2023.

The Young Workforce: A Critical Demographic at Risk

The situation is even more pronounced among the younger workforce. About 30% of teenagers are suspected of having depression, and half suffer from low self-esteem. Globally, these numbers don’t fare much better, painting a concerning picture for future generations entering the professional world. In fact, 59% of young adults aged 16-24 and 56% of those aged 25-39 have reported significant emotional health challenges.

These young individuals are more than just employees; as they progress in their careers, they assume increasingly critical roles as leaders, managers, and directors. Ensuring their emotional well-being is crucial for nurturing the next generation of corporate leadership. These emerging leaders and innovators are eager to contribute, yet their emotional needs are often overlooked. Neglecting these realities can result in decreased productivity, higher employee turnover, and a loss of both talent and competitive advantage.

Introduction to the Ladder of Emotions

In the fast-paced corporate world, understanding the Ladder of Emotions— an integral aspect of the autonomic nervous system — is crucial. But what exactly is the autonomic nervous system, and why is it labeled as "autonomous"? This system operates independently of our conscious control, regulating bodily functions without our awareness. Our emotions and reactions are initially triggered by this system, only later to be processed through rationalization.

The autonomic nervous system not only influences our actions and emotions but also the functionality of our organs. While the latter is outside the scope of this discussion, it's important to recognize how deeply this system is embedded in our daily lives.

The Ladder Explained

At the heart of the Emotional Ladder is the vagus nerve, specifically its ventral branch, which is crucial in shaping our responses to various situations. Understanding the states induced by the vagus nerve offers valuable insights into why certain emotional and physical states emerge, and what can trigger these responses. This knowledge is incredibly useful for achieving goals, as it helps leaders devise and implement strategies that boost workplace efficiency while also considering personal well-being.

The first state on the Emotional Ladder is called ventral state. When individuals are in it, they experience a sense of safety and openness, fostering creative and innovative thinking. This state promotes a feeling of security that enables individuals to execute plans and engage creatively with their environment. It is characterized by a calm demeanor and a proactive approach to problem-solving, supported by a well-regulated nervous system that encourages growth and connection.

The second state, often referred to as 'fight or flight,' is marked by a high-alert condition where the body prepares to respond to perceived threats. This state deeply influences how we feel and react during stress or crisis situations, making it prevalent among employees who face constant pressures or challenges. Recognizing and managing this state can help leaders steer their teams more effectively through high-pressure situations.

In contrast, the dorsal state, associated with the 'freeze' response, typically arises when an individual feels overwhelmed or helpless. This state is particularly significant in the workplace as it often reflects the experiences of employees who feel unable to cope with their circumstances. Addressing and understanding this state is crucial for mitigating workplace burnout and fostering an environment where creativity and productivity can thrive.

Emotional Awareness in Workplace

It is crucial to acknowledge that many employees, whether they face mental health challenges or not, often find themselves primarily in either the sympathetic or dorsal states, with the former also impacted by chemical and behavioral addictions. Those in the sympathetic state may experience persistent stress and anxiety, while those in the dorsal state can suffer from significant disengagement and reduced motivation. This situation directly addresses the core question: Why do people not deliver? Often, it's not due to laziness or a lack of desire, but because they are in a state that impedes effective performance.

Many workplace challenges stem from a scarcity of internal resources. We navigate the Emotional Ladder daily, but effectively leveraging it demands not just these resources but also some knowledge and skills. In this crucial area of emotional and psychological resilience, many managers find themselves under-equipped, often lacking the necessary knowledge to effectively support their people.

So, how should managers handle a situation where 50-70% of their staff are suffering due to a lack of resources, falling into a sympathetic state? What pitfalls should be avoided? This article represents a pause rather than a definitive conclusion. In my upcoming articles: 'Why Leaders Fail' and 'The New Leader', I will delve into the essential competencies necessary for modern leadership. Stay tuned as we explore these critical topics further.

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