Micro Moments, Major Impact: How Emotionally Intelligent Actions Create Healthier Work Cultures

By Duane Jourdeans | Founder, Upward Spiral Consulting

In today's world of work, we often talk about “culture” like it’s some big, elusive force shaped in executive boardrooms or team retreats. But the truth? Culture is built in the everyday actions most people overlook. It’s shaped in passing conversations, hallway nods, quick electronic messages, and two-minute check-ins before a meeting starts.

In other words—it’s built in micro moments.

And this is where it gets powerful: these moments might feel small, but when they’re rooted in emotional intelligence, their impact is anything but.

What Are Micro Moments?

Think of micro moments as emotionally intelligent touchpoints—brief, meaningful interactions that leave people feeling seen, valued, and safe. They often go unnoticed by the person giving them, but not by the person receiving them.

It could be a leader saying, “You seemed really focused during that meeting—your preparation showed.” Or a teammate pausing to say, “I know this week’s been heavy. Just wanted you to know I’ve got your back.” Micro moments are all about intentional awareness—especially in a world where it’s easy to rush past one another.

The Science Behind the Small

Here’s why these little moments matter:

• Mirror neurons in our brains are constantly picking up on emotional cues from others. When someone shows genuine empathy or recognition, our brain mirrors that positivity.

• Emotional contagion means moods spread—good or bad. One thoughtful interaction can shift the emotional tone of an entire team.

• And positive priming—a concept from positive psychology—tells us that short bursts of connection or encouragement can boost our mindset, creativity, and performance.

In short: a well-timed compliment, a pause to ask how someone’s really doing, or giving someone else the spotlight—it all adds up. And it adds up fast.

5 Micro Moments that Build a Healthier Culture

If you're a leader, teammate, or simply someone who wants to make work feel more human, here are five emotionally intelligent micro moments you can start creating today:

1. 🗣 Name the Good

   Don’t just say “Great job.” Say why it was great. “You asked a thoughtful question that shifted the whole conversation” hits differently.

2. ⏸ Pause with Purpose

   Take a moment to check in—even with just a few words. “How’s your energy today?” is more meaningful than the autopilot “How are you?”

3. 🌟 Share the Credit

   When something goes well, name the people behind the scenes. Recognition doesn’t have to come from the top to make an impact.

4. 🎉 Celebrate the Wins (Big or Small)

   Someone’s child hit a milestone? They got through a tough week? Respond with real joy. That’s called Active Constructive Responding, and it builds trust and connection.

5. 🧠 Lead with Curiosity, Not Assumption

   Instead of reacting to someone’s tone or behavior, get curious. “What’s behind that choice?” opens doors that judgment slams shut.

The Ripple Effect

Emotionally intelligent cultures aren’t built by accident. They’re built by leaders and teammates who consistently show up—with empathy, with authenticity, and with intention.

So here’s the challenge: What’s one micro moment you can create today that makes someone feel seen, heard, or appreciated?

Because the most powerful cultures aren’t the loudest ones. They’re the ones built—moment by moment—by people who care.