MODE OR MOOD?

While watching a sporting event on the television the other day, I accidently hit the mode button. I didn't even know the button existed. The results were very interesting. Suddenly I had the option to view the game in sports mode, movie mode or concert mode. Each mode changed the color, contrast and perspective on the screen. The change was slight, yet the sports mode certainly made the game more appealing to watch. It was powerful knowing I had the ability to create the right mode for the program.

Contrast mode to mood. If you have been around someone who is “moody” their attitude and behavior is constantly changing. One minute they are pleasant to be around, a few hours later you can't stand to be in the same room with them. Moody people tend to let circumstances determine their attitude. Bottom line, moody people are unpredictable.
Sometimes I think they are intentionally this way so others leave them alone and don't ask for input, a favor or advice.

Most people tend to be cautious around a moody person because they don't if they are about to be greeted friendly or get yelled at by saying “hi.” Let's face it, it's human nature to get in a bad mood occasionally, however; if you constantly demonstrate you are unpredictable it's wears people out. They cringe when they see you and many times will go out of their way to engage in a conversation. It's almost impossible to lead a group if you are perceived as a moody individual. Teams and groups look for someone who is relatively consistent in the way they act and respond to others.

Here's is breakdown on the difference between mood and mode.

Moody
Get frustrated when things are not going easy or as planned
Have a short temper with others
Use their unpredictable behavior to manipulate others
Let the outside events of life determine their attitude

Mode Setters
Show patience when tempted to freak out
Hold back on saying harsh words to others
Show emotions in an appropriate manner
Avoid taking their frustrations out on people who have nothing to do with the difficult situation
So are you a mode setter or a moody attention getter?

Craig Hillier
www.highschoolsportsleader.com