Kṛṣṇa explains that the three modes are in a constant state of war for supremacy in our minds. Sometimes Goodness defeats Passion and Ignorance; at other times, Passion takes over, and at still other times, Ignorance prevails. One mode is always the ‘Captain’ of our consciousness at any given moment. This explains our fluctuating moods. You might wake up feeling peaceful (Sattva), but after a stressful meeting, you become aggressive and ambitious (Rajas). By the end of the day, you feel drained and confused (Tamas). Our personality is a dynamic mix of these three colors, shifting according to our habits and environment. This verse teaches us to be observers of our own mental states. By identifying which mode is currently ‘winning’, we can take steps to feed the mode we want. If you want more Sattva, you must avoid the food, company, and activities that feed Rajas and Tamas. We are the managers of this internal competition.