Finding Joy in Serious Moments 😊

Meetings, microphones, and meticulous agendas—these are the usual ingredients of a professional roundtable. But somewhere between the opening remarks and the final applause, something special can happen: laughter. On October 20, 2025, I attended the Türkiye-Portugal Business Council Roundtable Meeting hosted by DEİK in Istanbul, representing our team at a discussion filled with new ideas, collaboration, and optimism for the future.

The meeting brought together remarkable business leaders, government representatives, and experts dedicated to strengthening economic ties between Türkiye and Portugal. The topics were serious—trade relations, investment opportunities, logistics, green transformation—but amid all the formality, there were also moments of humanity that reminded me why I truly enjoy what I do.

We discussed data, strategies, and markets, yet what stayed with me most was a small but unforgettable moment: I laughed. Not politely, not out of formality—but genuinely, from the heart. In a room full of suits, microphones, and translation headsets, I realized something simple: professionalism doesn’t mean suppressing emotion. You can be deeply focused on your work and still be fully present—smiling, laughing, and appreciating the people around you.

The Power of Presence

In today’s fast-paced professional world, it’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of looking serious enough, productive enough, or “corporate” enough. But sometimes, the most memorable and authentic part of an event isn’t the panel discussion or the PowerPoint slide—it’s the moment someone catches your eye, makes a small joke, or simply smiles in the middle of a tense conversation.

That’s the beauty of presence. When you’re truly present, even during demanding workdays or high-level meetings, you bring warmth to the room. You create connection. And connection—whether in diplomacy, business, or daily life—is what truly drives meaningful collaboration.

Balancing Professionalism and Personality

One thing I’ve learned through my work in international business councils is that balance is everything. We need knowledge, structure, and strategy—but also empathy, humor, and humanity. Being part of DEİK allows me to witness this balance every day. The organization brings together professionals who care deeply about economic growth, but who also know that partnerships are built not only on policies and projects, but also on trust and genuine relationships.

That day, as discussions about trade routes and logistics filled the air, I caught myself smiling—grateful for being surrounded by people who combine ambition with warmth. The laughter you see in these photos wasn’t staged. It was the natural outcome of teamwork and shared passion.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about closing deals or presenting perfect statistics—it’s about remembering that we are all people, and people thrive when there’s room for sincerity.

Joy as a Form of Confidence

Some might see laughter in a formal setting as unprofessional. I see it differently. It’s confidence. It’s knowing your role, your preparation, and your purpose so well that you can relax and be yourself even in the most formal environments. It’s saying, silently: “I belong here. And I’m enjoying every moment of it.”

That day reminded me that confidence doesn’t come from being rigid or reserved—it comes from being authentic. And authenticity inspires trust far more effectively than a flawless presentation ever could.

Capturing the Moment

Photography has always fascinated me because it freezes emotions that words sometimes fail to describe. Looking at these photos now, I see more than just a meeting—I see a reflection of how joy can exist even within formality. The way a smile softens the atmosphere, the way a gesture brings life to a serious discussion—it’s all part of the human story behind professional success.

If I could caption this moment, I’d say:

“Even at the most serious tables, never forget to laugh. Because joy is the best reminder that you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.”

A Little Reminder

So, to everyone reading this—whether you’re attending a business meeting, writing your next report, or simply getting through a busy workday—don’t forget to live the moment you’re in. Drink your tea slowly, smile at your colleagues, and allow yourself a small laugh even during the busiest agenda. Professional doesn’t mean robotic. You can be focused and joyful at the same time.

The world needs more people who can do both—lead with purpose and laugh with sincerity. And I hope these pictures serve as a small reminder that work, when done with heart, can be as joyful as it is meaningful.