I just came across this article about how to sound more emotionally intelligent. I was struck by the emphasis on suppressing most expressions of negativity, especially with the current climate of isolation, loneliness, burnout, disengagement, and mental illness at work (see some of our other blog posts).
What can you do instead?
Don't whine, but instead of trying to "sound" emotionally intelligent, try to "be" emotionally intelligent and find constructive ways to express negativity at work. Some of my own work here and here touches on the power of mindfully and generatively sharing how we really feel with others. And, of course, take the time to hear how others are feeling and (gently) challenge them to be constructive, focused on their role in how they feel, and what their next steps might be.