Ever been told how you’re feeling—and immediately felt misunderstood or even offended ?
That’s the risk leaders run when they label someone else’s emotions. “You seem angry,” “You must be stressed,” or “That made you upset”. These phrases might seem empathetic, but they can backfire.
People experience and interpret their feelings in deeply personal ways. A wrong label can feel dismissive, triggering defensiveness.
Replace assumptions with curiosity. Try: “How are you feeling about this ?” Respect begins when we stop telling others how they feel—and start giving them space to tell us.
Have you created enough space for your team members to share how they really feel ?
What’s one phrase you can start using today to better understand others without judgment ?
