It is important to address the emotional and unspoken dynamics in organizations. An open emotional expression can lead to more meaningful connections and better outcomes. Lets understand the Why of Silence to What could be done.
Why Silence Happens – In the beginning, members often say they have “nothing to say.” As the organization grows more comfortable, these same people might later share thoughts and feelings they were holding back.
The Costs of Staying Silent – When people keep their thoughts and feelings to themselves, they can feel disconnected and empty. This affects the organization because it leads to shallow conversations, mistrust, and a lack of engagement.
Cultural Pressure – Society often teaches us to hide emotions, especially in work or professional settings. Phrases like “don’t cry” or “don’t get angry” push people to bottle up feelings, making them think it’s wrong to share emotions openly.
Language Limits – It’s hard to fully express emotions using words alone. Some feelings are difficult to explain, and non-verbal communication (like tone and body language) is often overlooked but just as important.
Expressing Emotions – Emotions are essential to interactions. When people learn to express their feelings in a healthy way, it helps the team / organization to understand each other better and work together more effectively.
Dealing with Emotions – It can be uncomfortable when others in the team show emotions like anger or sadness, but acknowledging these feelings can make the team / organization stronger and more supportive.
Setting Boundaries – Organizations should set limits on what emotions or experiences are shared, focusing on things that are directly relevant to their work and discussions.
Staying quiet in group settings, affects both individuals and the organization as a whole.
