Emotion Can Get You Far In This Life

You are not neutral; people experience you every day.

Dove’s Real Beauty Sketches campaign gave us a masterclass in emotion.

We underestimate how powerful emotion is in our careers because so much of what we associate with professional success is buttoned-up, controlled, and strategic. We imagine the people who go far are the ones who keep a level head, say the right thing, and make logical moves at the right time. Or they’re just lucky enough to “know somebody”.

And while that can help, it’s not what makes people unforgettable, trustworthy, or safe to be around, nor is it what draws others toward you or opens new doors when others are stuck knocking.

The truth is, emotion, real, honest, skillfully held emotion, is one of the most powerful tools we have. Not in some cheesy motivational poster way, but in a practical, grounded, deeply human way. Emotion shapes memory and writes the stories others tell about you. It helps establish trust and lasting relationships in ways that logic cannot.

This is why emotion gets you far, because it’s the thing people are most hungry for and least willing to admit they need.