**Business Book Awards 2025 Finalist: Highly Commended**

**Business Brains Winner 2025: The Change Ninja Book Awards**

**FINALIST: HEALTH & WELLNESS BOOK 2025: Next-Generation Indie Book Awards**

Emotions at work: irrational, or invaluable?

For centuries we have divided mind and body, valuing reason over emotion. But new research is fundamentally changing our understanding about how our brains and bodies work. What might be possible when we leverage both our reason AND emotion?

Explore the vital link between emotions and organizational performance. Knowing more about our body and brain and how we are interconnected and interrelated can positively impact people, performance and profit.

Leadership coach and experienced finance director Susan Ní Chríodáin sits at the nexus of business and emotion and reveals how to reintroduce humanity into the workplace, for improved engagement and fulfillment, benefiting both individuals and organizations.

Easy to follow, well researched book, useful to leaders or want to be leaders in the workplace . Wise and practical – Amazon 5*

A very timely book right now and well worth the time and effort. Great perspective on understanding yourself and others. You just don’t know what others are going through – Amazon 5*

This book is genius. Excelling at your highest potential involves more than just hard work and possessing strong technical skills. In Leading Beyond the Numbers, the author delves into the additional aspects that I now regret not learning about earlier in my career. Susan provides a clear and understandable explanation of complex concepts and shares perspectives and stories that can improve your productivity, performance, and overall well-being. I will be encouraging my whole team to read this book. – John Barrett, CFO Global Operations and Supply Chain, Medtronic

At a time when the world seems obsessed with the impacts on business and society of Artificial Intelligence (AI), along comes a book which reminds us of just how important it is to be human. Leading Beyond the Numbers is a fascinating and informative book which advocates the latent potential of escaping the linear mind and tapping into the broader intelligence of our emotions and our bodies. It seems to relish the juxtaposition that it is written by career accountant and the wit and tone of the book also challenge the traditional stern-types of this noble profession. With this timely and enjoyable book, Susan Ní Chríodáin makes a strong case for why we must urgently get more balance into the emotional balance sheet of corporations. – Gib Bulloch, Author, The Intrapreneur, Founder & CEO, The Craigberoch Business Decelerator

If you’re a results-focused leader, you need to read this book. Susan Ní Chríodáin has used her lived experience to devise a roadmap for measuring the unmeasurable: How do we look beyond the numbers and account for our emotions at work? How do we become more human at work because our people are our greatest asset? Susan has the answers, and they’re in this book. – Aoife O’Brien, Founder of Happier at Work and host of the Happier at Work podcast

By considering and valuing the power of emotions in the workplace, Susan Ní Chríodáin, a former finance director, shows she is unwilling to be siloed or to “stay in her lane,” and we are all better for it. In a uniquely convincing yet “non-pushy” style, she implores the reader to take a deeper and more holistic view of themselves and reveals how a more mindful approach to emotions can make a difference in our lives and relationships. Reading the remarkably human Leading Beyond the Numbers, I was surprised to find how much the book challenged me to reflect and reconsider so many things about myself, both personally and professionally. As a Founder and former CEO of a large company in Africa, this book helped reveal the significance that emotions played in both our company’s challenges and our successes. I would encourage leaders and leadership teams of all types to make use of the wisdom shared in this inspirational book. – Kevin Ashley, Co-Founder and former CEO, Java House Africa

In a world driven by technology and algorithms Leading Beyond the Numbers is a compelling call to account for our humanity and to develop greater self-awareness. Through insightful parallels between emotional balance and financial prudence this book bridges the gap between personal wellbeing and corporate success and performance. It is a guidebook that unveils the relationship between managing our emotions and balancing our “inner books” and the importance of fostering a culture of empathy in both personal and professional spheres. It’s a must-read for those seeking a holistic approach to success, reminding us that a thriving society and corporate environment depend not just on numbers but on our collective emotional wealth. – Charlotte Cadoux, VP of Human Resources, Aptissen SA

Leading Beyond the Numbers explains how and why leaders need to reintroduce humanity into business by getting out of our heads and into our bodies. This isn’t another WooWoo rant though, it’s a down-to-earth guide, from an accomplished storyteller and former finance director, grounded in science and as inspiring as a TED Talk. – Alexander Inchbald, Climate artist, Bestselling author, Founder of #Masterpiece Movement

Through facts, quotes, stories, and, yes, numbers, you will find yourself reflecting about life and purpose. More than once, while reading Leading Beyond the Numbers, I had to stop and reflect – this book is a true gift! – Diego Adame, Senior Director, The LEGO Foundation

Susan Ní Chríodáin tackles the question of how to put more of ourselves into our work with aplomb. This well-researched book delves into the practical, personal, and philosophical aspects of true leadership. But you won’t just think differently after reading Leading Beyond the Numbers – you’ll feel a sense of expansion. – Greta Solomon, Freelance journalist and author of Heart, Sass & Soul

Leading Beyond the Numbers is a triumph – a must-read for all leaders. I could not put it down and made copious notes. Susan has weaved together her personal experience from workplaces, insights from her podcast interviews and the nuggets of wisdom from the thought leaders in emotional and somatic intelligence in a very compelling, clear and concise way. This book is like a lighthouse in a sometimes-overwhelming sea of information, it lights a pathway for us, the reader, to reflect, question, build self-insight and begin to make changes that are worth making, to make us better leaders. I love Susan’s practical, human approach which ignites new possibilities in the human soul. – Kerry Cullen, Somatic Coach, Facilitator & Chartered Psychologist

Leading Beyond the Numbers is a compelling exploration of the importance and value of emotions in business. Susan thoughtfully challenges the notion that to be professional one has to suppress emotions and instead advocates for both reason and emotions. In a world where business leaders often struggle to optimise employee engagement and employees likewise struggle to find fulfilment Susan provides original and thought-provoking insights to fill the gap. A must read. – Simon Moore – Author, Partner, Adams & Moore Solicitors LLP

Leading Beyond the Numbers is such an important book that should be required reading for everyone starting their first job. It provides valuable insights into how our brain and body work and the impact of sleep, stress, change, food and exercise on our performance and ability to engage at work. The personal stories shared illustrate the importance of meaning and sensemaking in organisations as well as the importance of compassion and taking time to feel and describe ALL our emotions. The case the author makes for bringing our whole selves to work and the need for organisations to recognise the whole person at work is essential knowledge for any leader or manager. – Dr Susanne Evans, Founder, Feldspar Consulting Ltd. and Podcaster, ChangeStories

In Leading Beyond the Numbers, I can hear the intensity of Susan’s voice in every page as she captures that conundrum on whether numbers can, at the same time, be factual and emotional. To succeed as an author, you need to leave your reader with something that they will carry forward with them into their future and I am stirred by a miniscule thing; one part of a sentence: “These terms, debit and credit, both come from Latin and mean to owe and to believe.” This, for me, is the crux; a debtor, factually, owes me but a creditor, in handing me goods without payment, has shown belief in me. I can think of no better example of Leading Beyond the Numbers than this. – John Shinnick, Portfolio Non-Executive Director

Such a creative and different approach to well-being in the workplace. I love how the author uses her extensive background in accounting to tie this essential topic (often deemed to be a bit ‘fluffy’) into the company accounts and therefore financial health and performance – something that matters to many leaders! It’s also very well researched and has definitely encouraged me to think differently about how I approach life. Fantastic food for thought for managers and leaders of all organisations. As mental health and well-being continue to gallop up the company agenda, is this a book you can afford not to read? – Andi Lonnen, FCCA, FBP Academy, author of Introduction to Finance, Business Partnering & Be Fabulous at Finance!

Accounting, and particularly management accounting, is as much about people as it is about numbers – telling the story of the business and the decisions it has made. Understanding the idiosyncrasies that make us human can help leaders tell their business story in a far more authentic, compelling way. But Leading Beyond the Numbers is not a book about accountancy, or leadership, or neuroscience. It is a fascinating exploration of all three, in which Susan applies familiar accounting and not-so-familiar neuroscience concepts to the world of work, and the people within it. Her engaging, relatable style and boundless curiosity make this an inspiring and thought-provoking read. Ultimately, our influence as leaders and finance professionals is determined by the mindset we choose to adopt. This book may very well change yours. – Rebecca McCaffry CPFA, FCMA, CGMA, Associate Technical Director, Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)

In Leading Beyond the Numbers, Susan Ní Chríodáin, with her rich background in accounting & finance, reimagines the future of work. She expertly illustrates how accounting for our feelings and integrating emotional intelligence into the fabric of our professional lives can revolutionise our decision-making and perception of workplace culture. This book is a vital guide for anyone looking to navigate and shape the evolving landscape of work where numbers tell only part of the story. – Andrew Codd, FCMA CGMA MBA, author of The Audacious Finance Partner & The Finance Mentors’ Ledger

Susan takes us on a wonderful journey through her past and by doing so, provides insight into all of our futures and asks us to consider who we really are at work. A captivating and thoughtful look at what it means to balance the books of our lives – our bodies, minds, hearts and environment to determine what it means to be human. With stories, humour and anecdotes, Susan uses her life in finance and beyond to ask the Big Questions about life itself. – Ellen Leith, Founder, The Purchase to Pay Network (PPN)

I know from working with Susan for many years that she fully vests herself in what she does. That is what makes this book so valuable. This is lived experience, years of learning, humour and heartfelt perspectives on how life and work are not separate things, but how they can and should reinforce each other. Businesses almost always say that their people are their greatest asset, but too rarely treat them as such. In what feels like a more complex and uncertain world, leaders need to nurture this human capital and allow us all to support one another by turning up at work as ourselves, not just as staff. Leading Beyond the Numbers brings together data (numbers), science and experience in an inspiring narrative that will have you reflecting on your own work-life. – John Fairhurst, Head, Private Sector Engagement The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria

Through a unique lens Leading Beyond the Numbers offers compelling insights into our work-lives that resonate with profound meaning. A must-read for aspiring leaders seeking fresh perspectives and a deeper understanding of their impact. – Deirdre de Bhailís, General Manager, Dingle Hub

I’ve just finished your book and I’m glad I took the time to read it. This topic needs more attention and understanding from both aspiring and well-established leaders at all levels. Understanding how our own human nature and that of others interrelate can make a huge difference in people performance and ultimately business performance. Leading Beyond the Numbers is a really good read, thought provoking, challenging and inspiring all at the same time. – Kevin Chevis, Former Executive Vice President Jenoptik

It’s accountancy, Jim, but not as we know it! What a great book. Susan Ní Chríodáin neatly summarises insights from current understandings of stress, emotion and neuroscience research and makes them deeply relevant to the workplace. She knows her audience well. The reframing of business phrases, to make them relevant to the process of regulation of feelings, is cleverly done and made me smile a number of times. She is remarkably successful in explaining complex concepts in simple, meaningful ways. Read this book to understand how your performance at work can be improved by knowing the habits of how your brain and body try to protect you in the modern workplace. In fact, read this book to be happier and more effective in all areas of life, not just in business. – Steve Haines, Author of Really Strange books and Director of Body College

Leading Beyond the Numbers is a unique and thought-provoking book of experiences and intuitive ideas about how we can make the workplace truly productive. Conveyed through the prism of accounting, Susan superbly articulates how we can better address some of those tricky and sometimes painful issues at work while supporting others – all in all, bringing out the best of ourselves. – Gabriella McMichael, PhD, United Nations World Food Programme

Susan’s Leading Beyond the Numbers is a brilliant blend of logic and humanity. While grounded in science, it is full of accessible tools leaders can use straight away. The book makes a powerful case that real leadership is about more than metrics, it’s about people, emotional intelligence, and empathy. It challenges leaders to reflect, adapt, and grow, which is why the judges felt it deserved special recognition.

Judge’s remarks from the Business Book Awards, 2025.

Foreword by Matt Phelan, co-founder The Happiness Index and author of Freedom to be Happy: the business case for happiness and The Happiness Index: why today’s emotions equal tomorrow’s business success.

Introduction

For centuries a battle has raged between emotion and reason, leading us to value thinking over feeling and mind over body. For many of us that has resulted in us relying on and developing our cognitive intelligence whilst diminishing our capacity to access and develop our other forms of intelligence. It isn’t our fault; we were conditioned that way. Until as recently as the 1980s emotions were viewed by scientists as insignificant – merely a nuisance or noise – and best ignored. Recent scientific developments challenge conventional thinking on the intelligence of our bodies including how emotions are made, what the primary role of emotion is and, most importantly for the workplace, how emotions influence our performance and profitability.

Part 1: Why account for emotions?

1: A growing (or going) concern?

According to a 2022 Gallup Report approximately only 1 in every 5 people feel engaged at work. Many of our workplaces are not conducive to people contributing their best and this has an impact on the bottom line. Our productivity is largely driven by how we feel about ourselves, our work, our colleagues and our organizations. The more we understand about how to draw the best from people, the more willing we will be to create cultures that value interpersonal collaboration. Leaving emotions out of the workplace equation has resulted in an epidemic of disengagement, mistrust and conflict. We are all emotional beings, and it’s time to invest in accounting for emotions at work rather than counting the mounting costs of ignoring them. Bringing emotions in requires more than just talk.

2: Back to Basics

The critical elements of each business are people and money. Accounting is a simple, yet elegant, way of conveying a version of the story of the financial health and performance of a business. To the external world this story is told through the medium of the annual financial statements. Each business is unique and even if their balance sheets are comparable the story beyond the numbers would differ. Have you ever thought about using a business balance sheet to account for your life?

Part 2: Human beings

3: Accounting for the brain at work

Technological advancements have opened up new frontiers in understanding how the human brain works and taken us beyond many of the popular assertions and beliefs. Explore how our brain works, how we make meaning and the implications of these at work with the help of recent developments in neuroscience, including neuroplasticity and research by Lisa Feldman Barrett on the predictive nature of our brain.

4: Accounting for the body at work

Our body is key to our performance, not just our brain. Discover the value of connecting more with your body at work. Do you know the differences between embodied self-awareness and conceptual self-awareness? Take an in-depth look at ‘body-budgeting’ a phrase used by Lisa Feldman Barrett to describe allostasis which helps the body adapt to changes in the environment. Our senses, breath, heart, gut, and the role of our nervous system helping us survive and thrive are also covered.

5: Reconciling brain, body and behavior

The traditional view of emotion was that emotions were automatic responses to specific circumstances. Neuroscience research has challenged this belief and come up with a new theory for how emotions are made. All humans are emotional beings. We don’t always connect what is going on in our body with the situation we are in, especially when faced with uncertainty or perceived threats. Also, our internal data, emotions and feelings, may not always be accurate or true. We don’t need to fear or feelings and by tuning into what is going on in our body and revaluing the data we can become more resourceful and distinguish between feeling unsafe or uncomfortable. Increasing our emotional vocabulary pays dividends. With a greater sense of self, we can self-regulate and move through complexity, difficulty, tension and uncertainty more confidently.

Part 3: Being human

6: I’m only human: not rational or emotional but rational and emotional

This chapter includes a selection of stories from my own life and the lives of Life Beyond the Numbers podcast guests. These stories help illustrate the concepts covered so far. Gain a greater understanding of the role our emotions play in our attention, creativity, decision-making, effectiveness, interactions, learning, performance, thinking and well-being. Reflect on the costs of either-or rather than both-and approaches.

7: Accounting for emotions

An adaptation of the financial statements, the balance sheet specifically, to present a view of how things like sleep, food, exercise, engagement levels, fear and stress impact individual performance. Each person impacts the performance of the organization so our cumulative physical, mental and emotional states can all have an impact on the bottom line. Our brain and body are always working to keep us in balance. There is beauty in balancing a set of financial statements. The intricacies that underpin the workings are wonderous. The real beauty is seeing people be their best selves. The intricacies that underpin our workings are wondrous too, and not one particular combination, input or formula will ever generate the same result. What is the on your performance at work? Prepare your own personal balance sheet by creating your unique formula:

• How do you manage your energyflow?
• Do you know how to value your intangibles – strengths, values?
• What is the return on investment of maintaining an optimal level of health?
• What is the impact of cumulative losses?
• Are you trying to generate profit at any cost?

Part 4: Business sense & sensibility

8: Disintegration and dysregulation: regulation and integration

Organizational culture is a set of shared values, beliefs, attitudes and assumptions. It is a proxy for the emotional state of an organization, or the collective emotional states of people who work there. People in leadership positions exert influence over this. Emotional contagion is present at work as moods and feelings can synchronize, spread and impact performance. Our nervous systems are always communicating, and we can co-regulate. It’s our loss when we don’t acknowledge this on an organizational level. Do we keep quiet and carry on, ensure that the workplace is psychologically safe, or introduce new ways of working? And what is the impact on hybrid workplaces? Investing in inner development and strengthening social intelligence will enhance outer organizational growth, increase revenue and retention and decrease conflict, disengagement and mistrust.

9: Why doesn’t everyone just get along – who is accountable and who is responsible?

We don’t create feelings of belonging, respect or safety in our organizations by talking about them. We need to walk the talk. Start with you. The ability to self-regulate is the key to greater confidence and competence and building better relationships. And building better relationships at work is what counts. What are you like as a leader of people? Do you know how to collaborate with others effectively? What are you contributing to your working relationships? Do the people you work with feel safe, feel respected and feel a sense of belonging? By being more emotionally aware you can positively influence the emotional state, and the financial results, of your workplace.

The bottom line: It’s more than a feeling

Emotions guide what we do at work. By dismissing the most unique element of what makes us human as noise or interference we have failed to generate the best behaviors to enable better collaboration, creativity, decisions, performance, relationships, results and workplaces. We are all shaped by our experiences, but we can all reshape ourselves and our futures. Connecting mind and body and embedding a both-and approach pays dividends. Don’t settle for someone else’s account of what life is supposed to be like, write your own story. You are the only one who is accountable. The bottom line is that accounting for emotions tips the balance at work.

FORMAT / ISBN / PUBLICATION DATE / RRP

Paperback / 9781788605106 / May 14, 2024 / £14.99

Hardback / 9781788605861 / May 14, 2024 / £24.99

Ebook / 9781788605120 / May 13, 2024 / £7.99

Paperback and eBook Bundle / £16.99

Susan Ní Chríodáin

Susan Ní Chríodáin, founder of consultancy Beyond the Numbers, is an award-winning chartered accountant with a Big 4 background. Through a career that spanned three continents and a range of leadership roles, she learned that success demands bravery, boldness and building strong working relationships; technical skills are only half the story. Learning to take responsibility for her own emotional state accelerated her ability to connect meaningfully with others.
Her MSc in Political Science showed her that the identity and culture of groups is heavily influenced by feelings. Working as a leadership coach and facilitator and undertaking various related courses opened her eyes to how we can all better leverage the power of our emotions.
Driven by the numbers of people who are disengaged at work, she is committed to creating more emotionally aware workplaces. Her popular podcast, Life Beyond the Numbers, is for people who are curious about having a more fulfilling work-life.