Unfolding the dynamics of emotions: how emotion drives or counteracts strategising

Abstract

This article sets out to unfold the dynamics of emotions in strategising. Drawing on evidence from two in-depth field studies, each of which followed the work of a strategist over a period of 20 months, we illustrate the decisive role of the display and interpretation of emotions in strategising. We conclude that depending on the way they are experienced, displayed and interpreted, emotions act as a driving or restraining force engendering a low or high level of emotional energy. This in turn either drives or counteracts strategising. The article contributes by conceptualising the dynamics of emotions in strategising, whereby strategising is regarded as an ongoing stream of emotional activity related to strategic outcome. Reference to this paper should be made as follows: Brundin, E. and Melin, L. (2006) 'Unfolding the dynamics of emotions: how emotion drives or counteracts strategising', Int. J. Work Organisation and Emotion, Vol. 1, No. 3, pp.277-302.