When organising group activities, particularly physically or mentally demanding ones, managing participants’ moods can often be more challenging than the logistics.
It’s common to encounter individuals who feel reluctant, overwhelmed, or even resentful about being there, and these emotions can manifest as anger, tempers, or outright grumpiness.
Knowing how to handle these situations with empathy and patience can make a world of difference for the group’s overall experience.
Understanding the root of frustration
The first step in managing participants’ emotions is recognising where their frustration comes from. Often, anger isn’t personal—it stems from discomfort, fear of the unknown, or a sense of being forced into the situation.
Acknowledge that such reactions are normal in unfamiliar or challenging environments, and remind yourself that their emotions are likely temporary.
Practical strategies for managing tempers
1. Acknowledge and validate feelings
Let participants know their emotions are valid. Saying something like, “I can see this is tough for you, and it’s okay to feel frustrated,” can help them feel understood and heard. Sometimes, simply being acknowledged can defuse tension.
2. Stay calm and composed
When tempers flare, avoid reacting emotionally. Responding with patience, even if you feel hurt or criticised, sets a calm tone and prevents escalating the situation.
3. Break tasks into smaller steps
Large challenges can feel overwhelming, so break them into manageable parts. Celebrate each small win, whether it’s completing an obstacle, getting through a section of the course, or simply making it to the next checkpoint. These moments of progress can boost morale.
4. Encourage camaraderie
Fostering a sense of teamwork can transform a tense group dynamic. Encourage participants to cheer each other on or assist one another. Shared victories and mutual support often lift the overall mood and create a sense of unity.
5. Offer a listening ear
Sometimes, participants just need to vent. Listen without interrupting, and respond with empathy. Avoid immediately offering solutions unless they ask for help.
6. Provide practical comforts
Addressing small discomforts can go a long way in improving mood. Whether it’s ensuring snacks are available, adjusting the pace, or allowing for short breaks, these gestures show you care about their well-being.
7. Give space when needed
If someone’s frustration is particularly intense, it may help to give them a moment to cool off. Allowing space for emotions to settle can prevent further conflict.
Encouraging teamwork in the face of resistance
One of the most effective ways to overcome resistance is by fostering a sense of togetherness. When participants see others supporting them, their initial reluctance often transforms into determination.
Celebrate acts of kindness within the group—whether it’s someone helping a peer overcome a hurdle or offering words of encouragement. These moments of connection can shift the atmosphere from frustration to camaraderie.
Reflecting on success
By the end of most challenging activities, participants often feel a deep sense of accomplishment. Their earlier frustration may give way to pride in their resilience and gratitude for the shared experience. As an organiser, seeing this transformation can be immensely rewarding.
Key takeaways for organisers
Managing participants’ moods during a challenging event requires patience, empathy, and adaptability. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Validate emotions: Acknowledge that it’s okay to feel frustrated or upset.
- Encourage teamwork: Unity among participants can uplift even the most reluctant individuals.
- Break challenges into steps: Small achievements help maintain motivation.
- Stay calm: Lead by example, showing composure in the face of tempers.
- Celebrate progress: Highlight milestones, no matter how small.
Ultimately, the experience isn’t just about completing the challenge—it’s about personal growth, teamwork, and perseverance. By fostering a supportive and understanding environment, you can turn initial resistance into a sense of shared accomplishment.