Article 3 - The Emotional Shield: How Emotional Intelligence Reduces Burnout in Apparel Workplace
Introduction
In the fast-moving world of apparel manufacturing, where speed, precision, and compliance often rule the day, workers face emotional highs and lows. Managing these emotions both their own and those of others can be the difference between daily survival and long-term burnout. This is where emotional intelligence (EI) plays a critical role in personal management, enabling workers and supervisors alike to thrive even in high-pressure environments.
Emotional Chaos in the Apparel Industry
The Sri Lankan apparel sector known for its exports to global giants demands high efficiency. But this comes with high emotional costs. Consider the following:
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A line supervisor must motivate her team to meet a 600 piece per day target while resolving disputes and handling absenteeism.
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A quality checker faces stress from repeated rejections and customer complaints, often without any support system.
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An HR executive is pressured to enforce strict rules while staying approachable.
These situations test workers’ emotional control and interpersonal skills daily. Without proper coping mechanisms, emotional exhaustion sets in a key component of burnout (Maslach & Leiter, 2016).
What is Emotional Intelligence?
Daniel Goleman (1995) defines emotional intelligence as the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions and to influence the emotions of others. He identified five core components:
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Self-awareness
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Self-regulation
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Motivation
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Empathy
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Social skills
In high-pressure environments like apparel factories, these elements become not just helpful—but necessary.
Real Factory Example: EI in Action
At a plant in Kandy, a senior production executive noticed increased absenteeism during peak orders. Instead of escalating the issue, he began holding 10 minute morning meetings to listen to staff concerns, offer support, and show appreciation. Within a month, absenteeism dropped by 15%.
His approach reflects Goleman's model:
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Self-awareness: Recognizing how stress affects his leadership
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Empathy: Understanding the emotional burden on staff
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Social skills: Creating an open communication channel
Linking Theory to Practice
According to Bloisi et al. (2007), personal management includes emotional regulation and communication as vital self-leadership traits. Emotional intelligence helps in:
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Reducing interpersonal conflict
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Improving team performance
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Building trust and psychological safety
Mullins (2019) also stresses that EI contributes to stronger workplace relationships, crucial in managing performance under stress.
Moreover, Northouse (2021) highlights that emotionally intelligent leaders are more likely to prevent burnout among teams by being approachable, supportive, and emotionally stable.
How Can Apparel Workers Build EI?
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Journaling & Reflection: Helps increase self-awareness
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Mindfulness sessions: Many SL apparel companies like Brandix have introduced guided meditation
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Role playing & coaching: Practiced in team leader training sessions
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Peer feedback: Encouraged during performance appraisals
These small efforts can strengthen emotional stamina in an otherwise rigid environment.
Conclusion
Emotional intelligence is the unseen force holding people together in high-pressure workplaces. In the apparel sector where emotional strain is often ignored EI empowers employees to manage stress constructively. Whether it's a machine operator, a merchandiser, or a senior manager, developing EI helps turn reactive tension into proactive resilience.
References
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Bloisi, W., Cook, C. W., and Hunsaker, P. L. (2007). Management and Organisational Behaviour. McGraw-Hill Education.
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Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ. New York: Bantam Books.
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Maslach, C. and Leiter, M.P. (2016). Burnout: A Multidimensional Perspective. Psychology Press.
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Mullins, L. J. (2019). Management and Organisational Behaviour. 12th ed. Pearson Education.
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Northouse, P. G. (2021). Leadership: Theory and Practice. 9th ed. Sage Publications.
This article sheds light on an often-overlooked aspect of the apparel industry: the emotional wellbeing of workers. I appreciate how it highlights the supervisor’s role in creating a psychologically safe environment. In an industry driven by tight deadlines and high pressure, empathy and open communication can make a significant difference. The concept of an “emotional shield” is powerful—encouraging leadership to act as a buffer rather than a stress amplifier. Investing in mental wellness is not only humane but also boosts productivity. I hope more factories implement these insights. Thank you for addressing such a crucial and timely topic
ReplyDeleteHi Buddhika, Thank you. I completely agree empathy and open communication are often undervalued assets in high-pressure industries like apparel. Your point about leadership acting as a buffer rather than a stress amplifier really resonates. When supervisors model emotional intelligence, it sends a powerful message throughout the organization. It not only helps reduce burnout but also fosters trust and engagement. I hope more leaders recognize the long-term value in building emotionally intelligent teams. it’s not just good for people, it’s good for business too.
DeleteThis article beautifully captures the often-overlooked emotional toll of working in the apparel industry. It’s refreshing to see emotional intelligence discussed not just as a leadership trait, but as a survival skill for workers at every level. The real-life example from the Kandy factory especially stood out it shows how simple, empathetic leadership can create real change. In an environment where burnout is normalized, this piece serves as an important reminder that human connection and emotional awareness aren't luxuries—they're necessities.
ReplyDeleteThank you. You’ve perfectly captured the spirit of the article emotional intelligence truly is a survival skill in fast-paced, high-stress settings like apparel manufacturing. I’m glad the Kandy factory example resonated with you; it’s proof that even small acts of empathy can spark meaningful change. As you said, human connection isn’t a luxury. it’s the foundation for sustainable performance and well-being.
DeleteA powerful and timely read. The emotional weight carried by apparel workers often goes unnoticed behind production targets and quality metrics. This article does a great job of connecting emotional intelligence to real-world outcomes like lower absenteeism and better team dynamics. It’s a reminder that investing in people’s emotional well-being isn't just good leadership—it's essential for sustainable performance in high-pressure industries.
ReplyDeleteThank you. You’re absolutely right behind every output figure is a human being managing stress, pressure, and emotion. By linking emotional intelligence to practical outcomes like reduced absenteeism, we aim to show that compassion and performance go hand in hand. Supporting emotional well-being isn’t just a leadership choice. it’s a strategic necessity for the long term health of both people and organizations.
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