《HIGH ON LIFE》(II): If Life Is So Beautiful, Why Does It Feel Like a Mess?

In our previous article, we talked about dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin，　discovering that emotions aren’t entirely out of our control. With the right techniques, we can actually learn to guide them.
Today, let’s continue to flip through this “Chemical Mixology Guide for Emotions” and look at three more key substances: cortisol, endorphins, and testosterone, to see how they shape our emotions and behavior at work.

 

Cortisol: The Stress Hormone
Cortisol is often called stress hormones. When you face an urgent project or your manager suddenly assigns a new task, your body releases cortisol to remind you, “This needs to be done!” At the same time, it releases glucose to give you the energy needed to deal with pressure.
A certain level of stress is healthy, it keeps you motivated and alert. But many professionals today live under prolonged high cortisol levels: working overtime, over-focusing on performance, constantly bombarded by messages, and struggling to find work-life balance.
In this state, the body mistakenly believes it’s always in “crisis mode,” making it hard to relax. Over time, this can lead to anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, digestive issues, weakened immunity, and even memory or focus problems. Prolonged cortisol imbalance can also affect serotonin levels, leading to loss of motivation or depression.

 

So, how can we manage it?
Studies show that regular exercise, deep breathing, and meditation can help lower cortisol levels. In the workplace, it’s equally important to take moments to pause and recharge. When stress hits, try looking at family photos, getting a massage, hugging someone, or expressing gratitude, all of which can trigger the release of oxytocin, helping to ease stress naturally.

 

Endorphins: The Natural Mood Booster
The fifth chemical, endorphins, is often called the “happy painkiller.” They’re released through exercise, laughter, or listening to music. Remember that surge of euphoria marathon runners feels when crossing the finish line? That’s endorphins at work.

In the workplace, endorphins not only reduce stress but also build resilience. When a project hits a rough patch, and the team manages to laugh or joke together, the problem might not disappear immediately, but the mood lightens, and creativity returns. Studies show that smiling or laughing makes you feel happier and also helps others see you as more trustworthy.
Interestingly, endorphins are also closely linked to challenge. When we step out of our comfort zone and accomplish something we once thought was difficult, the brain releases endorphins as a reward, giving us a sense of satisfaction and pride. That’s why some people seem to “love challenges.” They’re not seeking trouble; they’re chasing the joy that endorphins bring.

 

Testosterone: The Confidence Catalyst
The last chemical, testosterone, is often associated with masculinity or muscle growth, but in fact, both men and women have it. Testosterone acts as a tool that helps us elevate our social standing. Whether it’s through humor, creativity, or generosity, this hormone enhances those very traits, making you funnier, more innovative, and more giving.
When you bravely share your ideas in a meeting or successfully hit a key target, your brain’s testosterone levels rise, giving you the courage to take on even greater challenges. Conversely, repeated setbacks can lower testosterone levels, which in turn may shake your confidence.
Interestingly, studies also show that body posture affects testosterone. Harvard psychologist Amy Cuddy proposed the “power pose” theory: simply holding an open, confident posture for two minutes can boost testosterone and lower cortisol, helping you enter a more positive and empowered state. Perhaps this is the simplest and most effective secret to workplace confidence.

 

Be Your Own Emotional Mixologist
Emotions at work can be guided through awareness and small adjustments. When you feel anxious, check whether your cortisol might be too high, and relieve it with deep breathing or exercise. When you feel like avoiding challenges, take a small step forward to release some endorphins. When you hesitate to speak up, strike a confident pose to boost testosterone and give yourself a little extra courage.

Now, as you hold your own “emotional cocktail,” doesn’t it already feel a little different? 

 

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