But First Coffee: Tips to Manage Moods in the Workplace

Sometimes we roll out of bed in the morning, stretch out and we’re ready to tackle the day. Other times, we wake up and sludge our way out of the house, personifying the t-shirt that reads “But first coffee”.

Our bodies run on daily circadian rhythms - the biological changes that happen within our bodies at different points in the day - and there are a number of factors that influence those biological changes. The amount of sleep we get, what we eat, and social interaction are just a few external variables. These rhythms are linked to our emotional health, and those variables change daily. Meaning, our bodies and our moods are also changing daily.

Those changing moods affect how people see us and how we see other people on a day-to-day basis. So, if we carry certain moods into the workplace, they can affect our job performance, how we act, and how we interact with others. Learning to recognize and navigate those moods in ourselves and others will lead to a happy and healthy work environment.

Let’s look at some ways you can manage moods in the workplace.

Self Awareness

At critical moments of the day, take a moment to recognize the mood or the mindset you’re in. Account for how your mood will impact your coworkers, business meetings, or the rest of your day.

1. Take a moment to yourself - away from your phone, your morning routine, etc - to see where your mind is at.
2. Step away from your desk if you need - get water or say hi to a coworker.
3. Ask yourself, how might someone react to you based on your mood, or even how you might react to someone in your current mood.

Practice Mindfulness

1. Recognize others’ moods as well. Read the room. Figure out the right times, and ways to communicate with people based on those moods.
2. Engage with coworkers regularly - even just a few minutes of light conversation may help you recognize and even change someone’s mood.
3. Create a rapport with those around you, try to understand who they are and where they’re coming from, and be open to listening to them.
4. If need be, develop a strategy for communicating with someone based on their moods.

Hold Focus

Stay focused on goals and results, not moods or emotions. Moods are subjective but they can impact our judgement and performance in an objective world. Despite your mood, the business goals aren’t going to change, so tackle your work with that in mind.

1. Try to check your emotions at the door - word doesn’t change only your moods.
2. Set daily goals to help keep you on track.
3. Keep your day organized with a to-do list or schedule.

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