I used to believe that it was unprofessional to cry. This caused me some problems because I cry often and sometimes that happens at work. It can be triggered by disappointment, exhaustion, feeling misused, frustration – a whole lot of things really.

And once I start, I can’t stop – on command that is.

But I began to really look at my shame.

Why is anger and aggression at work more acceptable than tears?

How much has a masculine work culture contributed to my feelings of shame?

Why do I feel this rush of humiliation afterwards?

Where does that shame come from?

And something has shifted. I’m tired of apologising when I cry. I’m embracing it. I’m even on the way to being proud of it. It’s who I am. Go me!

When tears well up in my coaching conversations – from men and women – I’m so totally comfortable with it (sometimes I’ll even join you!).

I’m interested in your thoughts on this. How comfortable are you with tears (your own and others)?