Michael Saltzstein: Emotional Labor Deserves Recognition in Modern Office Culture When we think of workplace contributions, we often focus on productivity, deadlines, and deliverables. Yet there's a less visible force shaping team dynamics and client interactions , emotional labor . Michael Saltzstein , a respected voice in workplace dynamics and leadership development, emphasizes that the emotional energy employees invest in maintaining composure, empathy , and diplomacy is critical, though often unrecognized. Emotional labor refers to regulating feelings and expressions to fulfill professional roles. It’s what happens when an employee smiles through frustration, remains calm in a heated meeting, or absorbs a client’s stress while remaining supportive. This unseen effort keeps workplaces functioning smoothly, yet it often comes with emotional exhaustion and a lack of acknowledgment. The Demands Behind the Smile Frontline professionals, ...
Michael Saltzstein on Cognitive Overload at Work Can Lead to Decision Fatigue Modern workplaces are filled with tasks, notifications and decisions that demand constant attention. While this environment may seem like a mark of efficiency, Michael Saltzstein mentions that it often masks a hidden cost: cognitive load and decision fatigue. These two psychological phenomena can silently erode productivity, well-being, and the ability to make sound choices throughout the workday. Cognitive load refers to the mental effort required to process information and complete tasks. When this load becomes excessive, it overwhelms an employee’s ability to think clearly and retain important details . Combine this with the endless decisions many workers must make each day, from responding to emails to prioritizing meetings , and you have a recipe for burnout and poor judgment. Decision Fatigue Builds Quietly The average adult makes thousands of decisions dai...