3 Tips for Combatting Emotional Contagion
Taking control of your own emotions benefits you and your team.
The workplace can be a stressful environment, and many of us have experienced how negative emotions can spread quickly and easily. This phenomenon is known as emotional contagion, which occurs when one person's emotions and behaviors are influenced by those of others around them. Emotional contagion can have a significant impact on workplace culture, employee well-being, and ultimately, organizational success. However, there are steps that individuals can take to combat emotional contagion and create a more positive workplace environment.
Several studies have demonstrated the effects of emotional contagion in the workplace. For example, a study by Sigal Barsade and Hakan Ozcelik found that when employees were in a positive mood, they performed better on tasks that required creativity and decision-making. Similarly, a study by Elaine Hatfield and her colleagues showed that when waitresses in a restaurant were more expressive and positive, they received higher tips from customers. These studies demonstrate how emotional contagion can have both positive and negative effects on workplace outcomes.
To combat emotional contagion in the workplace, there are three key actions that individuals can take:
Acknowledge
Put on a happy filter
Step back
Acknowledge. The first action is to be aware of one's own emotions and how they might be impacting others. This requires individuals to be mindful of their emotional state and to monitor their own behavior to ensure that they are not unintentionally spreading negativity or stress to others. By being aware of their emotions, individuals can take steps to regulate them and project a more positive and optimistic outlook.
Put on a happy filter. The second action is to actively seek out positive emotions and experiences. This might involve cultivating positive relationships with coworkers, engaging in activities that promote well-being and stress reduction, and seeking out opportunities for positive feedback and recognition. By actively seeking out positive emotions and experiences, individuals can build resilience to negative emotions and become more resistant to emotional contagion.
Step back. The third action is to, when necessary, remove yourself from the situation where you’ll spread negative emotions. Taking space for your mental health benefits not only yourself but those around you
In conclusion, emotional contagion is a real phenomenon that can have significant impacts on workplace culture and individual well-being. However, by being aware of one's own emotions, actively seeking out positive experiences, and practicing empathy and compassion towards others, individuals can combat emotional contagion and create a more positive workplace environment. These actions not only benefit the individual, but also contribute to organizational success and a more positive workplace culture overall.