This archive report was first published on 30 August 2019.
Have you ever found yourself sitting next to a colleague who seems to be perpetually happy and jovial, only to feel driven crazy by their constant cheerfulness?
As we navigate our careers, we often encounter people with different personalities and preferences, and some may find it challenging to interact with those who project a joyful disposition.
But is it really possible for someone to be consistently happy, or is it just a facade? And what about our own attitudes towards life - do we prefer a sedate or melancholic disposition?
According to Fred Gituku, a Human Resources Practitioner, 'a mood is not an automatic by-product of circumstances. There is the intermediation of the choice of attitude an individual takes towards life.'
So, before we jump to conclusions about our deskmate's mental state, perhaps we should have a conversation with them and share our observation. We might learn from them and understand their attitude better.
As Fred Gituku suggests, 'if your desk mates' mood is such a threat to your existence, perhaps a new desk could be arranged for you.'
And as we consider how best to react, remember that others also have their view on our own attitude.
