EMOTION MANAGEMENT IN PROFESSIONAL LIFE: A CONCEPTUAL REVIEW

Abstract

Individuals experience various emotional states both in their professional and personal lives. Emotions are an integral part of human behavior and play a decisive role in many areas, from one’s inner world to social relationships. People do not possess the ability to act completely independent of their emotions; however, through acquired skills, they can control their emotions and direct them toward their own goals. Emotions can influence an individual’s outlook on life, level of motivation, and job performance either positively or negatively. Therefore, effective management of emotions has the potential to enhance both morale and productivity.The impact of emotions on individual behaviors is also critically important for understanding organizational attitudes and behaviors. Emotional experiences cannot be considered independently of the context in which they occur, and it is well known that various emotions are experienced in workplace settings. In modern societies, the workplace is one of the primary environments where individuals undergo intense emotional experiences. The work environment cannot be approached as devoid of emotions; in particular, the influence of emotions becomes more pronounced in professions characterized by high levels of human interaction. In professional life, individuals are expected to keep their emotions under control and to direct them appropriately. This expectation is even higher in organizations such as educational institutions, where face-to-face communication is intense. Emotion management in organizations is not merely an individual process but also encompasses shaping the overall emotional atmosphere of the organization. The management of emotional climate (ECM) aims to foster positive emotions within the organization and minimize negative emotions, thereby increasing organizational effectiveness and job satisfaction. In this context, the importance of emotion management in the business world is increasingly emphasized. This study discusses the fundamental concepts related to the management of emotional climate and explains their connections to professional life in detail. First, the concept of emotion, its basic characteristics, and functions are addressed; then, various theoretical approaches and perceptions regarding emotions are examined. Finally, key concepts related to emotion and emotion management are explained, and the dimensions of emotion management at both the individual and organizational levels—namely ECM—are comprehensively evaluated. Furthermore, managing emotions in the workplace emerges as a significant factor in enhancing employee job satisfaction, motivation, and organizational commitment. In organizations where emotions are managed effectively, trust, cooperation, and a sense of belonging develop among employees, contributing positively to both individual and organizational success. In conclusion, emotion management in professional life supports individuals’ psychological well-being and forms the foundation for the sustainable success of organizations.