“Emotional labour” is the idea that dealing with feelings-related problems is work.

Illustration of two stick figures having a conversation. The employee has short curly hair and looks angry. The manager is smiling and has no hair.

I’m angry that my contributions on that project weren’t recognized…
manager: [understanding face, doing work]

Emotional labour is part of what managers are paid to do. But!! Managers aren’t therapists.

Illustration of a smiling stick figure, crossed out in red.

manager: tell me about your father…

not good 1:1 material (smiley face)

When I’m upset about something, I try to be clear about why and ideally explain what I think a reasonable resolution would be.

employee: can we just make sure it features in my next performance review? manager: yes definitely!