Emotional reasoning is a thinking process. In this process, a person decides that their emotional reaction is proof enough for something to be true.

For example, someone who feels lonely may decide that he/she is not liked by others.The person may actually have many friends. However the emotion of loneliness is used to reason and reach to the wrong conclusion that the person is actually not loved. Despite the presence of several friends in the person’s social circle, the emotions are taken as the final truth.

How can emotional reasoning cause stress at the workplace?
Take a look at the case of Joe working in his office. Despite working hard, if Joe feels that his colleagues do not value his work, he may conclude that this is true. In fact it may be just the opposite. Many co-workers may actually be admiring Joe but not telling him. Since Joe believes that he is not valued, he develops resentment towards his workplace. This can lead to a lot of unnecessary stress. He may even consider quitting his job! All of it arising from the single emotion of not feeling valued enough.

How to handle it?
Do not believe everything that you ‘feel’ about your workplace. Sometimes, gut feeling is wrong. Stop punishing yourself psychologically by assuming things about your office or colleagues.