It’s the time of the year when mornings are crisp and evenings require a hoodie. Welcome to West Michigan, where we may change our clothes multiple times a day to adjust to the fall weather, as we set aside our margaritas and pick up our pumpkin spice lattes. The leaves change color, the fields are harvested, and the evening smell of campfire wafts through the air.
Just like the change in temperature creates a new fall atmosphere, I can’t help but think about the atmosphere we personally create wherever we go.
It’s a familiar concept: a thermometer or a thermostat…which one are you?
A thermometer states the temperature of the room. A thermostat, however, recognizes the current temperature and intentionally works to change it.
If the environment is negative, stressful, or discouraging, a thermometer absorbs and reports that energy. A thermostat will work to change the temperature of the environment.
Every day, we have an opportunity to influence the climate around us. This is true in our workplaces, homes, schools, churches and communities. We may not have control over every circumstance, but we do have control over what we bring into the room.
At work, culture is not created only by leaders, policies or words displayed on a wall. Culture is built through hundreds of small interactions. It’s created by the way we greet one another, respond when someone makes a mistake, help a teammate who is struggling and treat the person standing in front of us.
At the car wash, the actual temperature can change quickly. One day may bring sunshine and long lines; the next may bring cold rain, equipment issues, increased fuel prices and frustrated guests. Our team members cannot control the weather, traffic or unexpected challenges. They can, however, influence how people feel during those moments. We strive to offer a warm welcome, a calm response or a willingness to help that can completely change someone’s experience.
How do you react? Do you just mirror and report the temperature, or are you a thermostat that recognizes the temperature and works to improve the environment?
When tension rises, do we add to it or help bring calm? When someone is discouraged, do we join in the negativity or offer encouragement? When a problem appears, do we complain about who caused it or help find a solution?
Being a thermostat doesn’t mean pretending everything is perfect. It means acknowledging reality while choosing a response that moves people forward. Sometimes changing the temperature means bringing energy and enthusiasm. Other times, it means slowing down, listening or having an honest conversation. It may be as simple as learning someone’s name, expressing appreciation or offering patience when it would be easier to show frustration.
We often underestimate how much influence we have. A single person’s attitude can spread quickly—for better or worse. One thoughtful word can restore confidence. One act of kindness can interrupt a difficult day. One person choosing to remain steady can change the direction of an entire conversation.
All too often, it seems easier to jump on board with negativity and just mirror what’s happening. But I challenge you to take the road less traveled: Be the thermostat.
This October, as the temperatures outside begin to fall, pay attention to the temperature you help create inside the places you enter. Before reacting to the atmosphere around you, pause and ask: What does this room need from me?
You may not control the weather, the circumstances or the attitudes of others, but you always have the power to bring warmth, encouragement and exceptional service. Don’t simply reflect the climate around you; help create one where people can thrive.
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