Do you set the vibe for your tribe?

Keturah Charlesworth Author

Navigating the pros and cons of being the vibe-setter in your work, life and love tribes

Did you know that if you fill a room with guitars and then pluck a string on just one of them, the corresponding string will vibrate on every other guitar in the room? Pretty cool, right?

How one single guitar can have a vibrational impact on all the other guitars in the room?

And it’s not so different with humans.

Emotional vibrations – How we affect each other

When we’re in groups, there’s often one person who sets the tone for the rest. Their mood, attitude, words, and energy ripple out, influencing everyone around them. Essentially, they set the vibe for the tribe.

This can happen anywhere: in families, at work, among friends, or even in sports clubs and hobbies – anywhere we connect and collaborate with others. What’s interesting is that it’s not always the same person setting the vibe. We all take turns holding that torch, but often there’s a key "viber" who tends to steer the emotional direction most of the time.

The science of it all – Emotional contagion

This isn’t just an intuitive feeling; there’s actual science behind it. Emotional contagion is a well-documented phenomenon. It's our brain’s natural tendency to mirror the emotions of those around us. Mirror neurons, those brain cells that light up when we observe someone else’s behaviour, play a key role in this. These neurons help us empathise and "catch" other people’s vibes.

So, just like the vibrating guitars, when one person’s emotions shift, everyone else in their orbit can feel it. And the energy we emit can either lift people up or bring them down.

When you’re the ‘vibe-setter’

Being the one to set the vibe can feel both like a blessing and a challenge. You’re in a position to lift the energy of those around you—bringing more love, laughter, and connection into the group. You can lead by showing others how to stay positive and watch as they follow your energetic lead.

But what happens on days when you're feeling down? When you’re not your best self, and yet, people are still looking to you to maintain the vibe? It’s tough. Imagine walking through the door after a shocking day and rather than being picked up by your loving tribe, they all match your somber mood. 

Sometimes the pressure to always be the energetic guide can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re having a rough day. This is the perfect time to pass the baton! It’s okay to have bad days and let others take the lead from time to time.

Practical tips for vibe-setters:

1. Check in with yourself regularly. Ask yourself, What energy am I bringing into this space? If you're feeling off, it's okay to acknowledge it. This awareness can help you manage your influence more consciously.
2. Communicate when you need support. You don’t have to carry the vibe alone. If you’re not feeling up to it, let someone else know. Having a ‘backup buddy’ who can step in and share the load can make a world of difference.
3. Prioritise your own self-care. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Make sure you're taking the time to recharge when needed so you can continue being the positive force others rely on.

When you’re the ‘vibe-getter’

Now, what about when you’re on the receiving end of someone else’s vibe? When you’re surrounded by uplifting energy, it’s like catching a wave and riding it all the way to shore. But if the vibe is negative, it can feel like you're being pulled under.

It’s difficult to stay unaffected by someone else's energy, especially in close-knit environments like work or family. But it’s crucial to recognise when another person’s vibe is pulling you down and to take steps to protect your own emotional space.

Practical tips for vibe-getters:

1. Become aware of whose energy you’re absorbing. Are you consistently surrounded by positive people, or are you being drained by negativity? Reflect on the key relationships in your life and how they make you feel.
2. Set boundaries when necessary. If someone’s energy is toxic or overwhelming, it’s okay to distance yourself. You have the right to protect your mental and emotional well-being.
3. Cultivate your own grounding practices. Whether it's mindfulness, meditation, or even taking a walk outside, find activities that help you reset and detach from other people's emotions.

Reflection: Whose vibe are you buzzing to?

Think about your personal and professional circles. Who’s the vibe-setter in your world? And when you’re the one setting the vibe, how does that responsibility feel? By reflecting on these questions, you can become more intentional about the energy you give and receive.

Ready to take control of your vibe?

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the energy around you or uncertain about the impact you have on others, you’re not alone. Gaining clarity on your role in your relationships and learning how to navigate your energy can change everything.

Book an intuitive coaching session with me to explore how you can master the vibes you give and receive. Together, we’ll uncover how to protect your energy, boost your self-awareness, and create a more positive environment for you and your tribe.

Click here to book your session now!

Categories: : Leading with love, Resilience, Self awareness