The Mood Elevator
Choosing to move upward—faith and action lift us higher.
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”
(Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)
I used to work for a company that embraced the “Mood Elevator” concept—a philosophy from Larry Senn’s book that I still carry with me. I even keep the card they gave us as a reminder.
The Mood Elevator maps out a range of emotional states, from the depths of Depressed to the heights of Grateful, with many stops along the way. What I appreciate about the concept is that it doesn’t judge any of those moods—they’re all valid. Life unfolds, circumstances shift, and our moods ride the elevator accordingly.
The key is awareness. Recognizing where you are on the Mood Elevator helps determine how—or even whether—you should engage in certain activities. When you're near the bottom, it’s typically not the best time to make big decisions. But when you're closer to the top, it's an ideal moment to tap into your creativity or take on something new.
How to Move Up
When I ask folks in my circle, the go-to answer is usually coffee. And honestly, it’s not a bad pick! But let’s talk about strategies that don’t rely on caffeine.
My top recommendation? Exercise. Going for a walk, run, or some sort of energy-filled movement is arguably the most effective way to elevate your mood. Movement releases endorphins and clears mental fog.
Connection helps too. Whether it’s calling a loved one, volunteering, or simply helping someone out, those acts light up the dopamine pathways and lift us higher.
Connection isn’t just important—it’s essential. That’s why exercise groups work so well. They combine movement with accountability and community. When your group expects you to be there for the morning workout, rolling over at 4:30 AM suddenly comes with consequences (and maybe a few “motivational” text messages).
If you're not part of a group, maybe it’s time to explore what’s available nearby. And no, it doesn't have to be a pre-dawn boot camp. Just find what works for you.
Living on the Top Floors
As summer winds down and fall approaches, let’s recommit to living on the upper floors of the Mood Elevator. And when life presses us down, let’s be intentional—taking action to press the button and rise again toward gratitude, connection, and purpose.
Hope to see you on one of the Top Floors. Have a GREAT week!
Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley