Look, if there's one thing I've learned in my years of interacting with all sorts of people, it's the undeniable power of sharing your feelings. It's like hitting the refresh button on any relationship, be it with a colleague, friend, or a romantic partner.
When you take that step to bring up something challenging, but frame it in terms of your own feelings—without pointing fingers or casting blame—you're doing something transformative. You're making the other person aware of their role in how you feel. You're not putting them on the defensive; you're inviting them into a space where both of you can figure things out. It's like saying, "Hey, this is what's going on with me, let's find a way to make it better."
Now, why is it crucial to talk about feelings? Simple. You want to surround yourself with people who consider your feelings valid. If you bring up how you feel in response to something someone did, and the conversation goes south—or worse, they dismiss your feelings outright—then you've got your answer right there. You probably don't want to keep working or associating with that person.
Anyone who claims to be a "people person" or an effective leader should recognize that feelings are part of the human equation. Denying that is like denying that the sun rises in the east. It's a fundamental part of who we are. It doesn't mean that every feeling needs to lead to a concrete conclusion or action. But ignoring or devaluing someone's feelings is a one-way ticket to Resentment Town, and let me tell you, nobody wants to live there.
If you're in a work environment, and something a colleague, employer, or leader does triggers negative feelings that are hard to shake off, don't sweep it under the rug. That's how resentment grows, like mold in a dark, damp corner. And once it festers, it's a beast to get rid of.
So don't be afraid to share your feelings. It's not just therapeutic; it's a barometer for the health of your relationships and collaborations. Open up, talk it out, and build connections that are grounded in emotional honesty. That's how you get to the core of meaningful human interaction.