From Contagion to Compassion

In the hustle and bustle of the workplace, reactions are an unwelcome companion for many employees. It doesn't just affect individuals—it can spread like wildfire. Picture this: Two colleagues walk into the office, each carrying the weight of their personal chaos from moments before work. The impact on mental health with transitions from home to work is soaring, surpassing conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

Socializing practices are contagious, and its ripple effect is powerful. When one person experiences emotional upheaval, it can stir up the emotions of others around them. The key lies in stopping the spread of reactionary contagions.

When brains receive stimuli and interprets them through neurons, it follows a process akin to navigating a map. This process will choose one of two paths: to be reactive or to be responsive. Reactive behavior, like Alan's annoyance with Joe's eating habits, leads to disengagement and distraction. On the other hand, if Alan responded, rather than react, it would’ve involved either a conscious inner dialogue or a routine productive action.

Consider Joe's perspective. Maybe his chip-eating is a sensory integrative mechanism to calm feeling anxious so he can actively listen and engage. Alan responding to Joe highlights the importance of cultivating a supportive community that values health and takes into consideration personal initiatives.

Communities play a crucial role in personal growth and a growth mindset. Whether it's the workplace, household, or gym, communities form around common interests, providing a support system for individuals. Growth flourishes in environments where peer support is central. Perhaps, a supportive response to chip-eating may appear foolish. After all…are chips really all that “healthy?”

Growth’s essentials involve a shift from self-focused leadership to shared-interest leadership. Encourage open communication, reward networking that enhances mental health, and - perhaps, track the results collectively. Reactions are part of our DNA, but how we perceive and manage what we see and feel determines the impact on achieving a culture of well-being.