Photos by Magenta School of Magick
In today’s fast-paced, high-stress corporate landscape, the importance of employee wellbeing has never been more paramount. Traditional approaches to corporate wellbeing have often focused on physical and mental health, overlooking the crucial element of spiritual wellbeing. However, a growing body of research suggests that nurturing the spiritual dimension of an individual can have a profound impact on their overall workplace performance, job satisfaction, and overall quality of life. In this article we will share a different approach to corporate wellbeing, one that is inclusive of the spiritual, in order for people to find a deeper connection between what they do and who they are.
The Importance of Spiritual Wellbeing in the Workplace
Spiritual wellbeing encompasses a deep sense of purpose, meaning, and connection, both within oneself and with the world around us. For Maslow, he described this as “transcendence”, as it encompassed notions of overcoming the “self” and finding purpose in something much larger.
When employees feel a sense of purpose and meaning in their work, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and resilient in the face of workplace challenges. Fostering spiritual wellbeing can also lead to improved mental health, reduced stress and burnout, and a greater sense of belonging and community within the organisation.
A Different Approach To Corporate Wellbeing: Give Back to Nature
We have often shared numerous studies that have shown the profound impact that exposure to nature can have on an individual’s wellbeing, both physically and mentally. By spending time outdoors and incorporating natural elements and greenery into the workplace, you can create a more calming, rejuvenating, and spiritually nourishing environment for your employees.
Undertake corporate beach clearing, or workplace volunteering at local parks and community gardens to give employees paid access to an outdoor space that gives back to the local community.
A Different Approach To Corporate Wellbeing: Mindfulness and Meditation Programmes
Another effective way to cultivate spiritual wellbeing in the workplace is through the implementation of mindfulness and meditation programmes. These practises have been shown to reduce stress, improve focus and concentration, and enhance emotional intelligence – all of which are crucial for success in the corporate world.
If you are able to, consider dedicating a space in the workplace where employees can take paid time out to meditate, where there is soothing lighting, with minimal distractions. This room is not simply a “break room” it is a room for spiritual contemplation, whatever that may be.
A Different Approach To Corporate Wellbeing: Train Employees in Personal Growth and Self-Discovery
Another different approach to corporate wellbeing is to train employees in personal growth and self-discovery. This can involve offering workshops, coaching, or mentorship programs that help individuals explore their values, purpose, and authentic selves. By supporting your employees’ personal development beyond training them to do their job, you can foster a deeper sense of meaning and connection for that person within the organisation.
As a starter for ten, encourage employees to engage in regular reflective journaling, where they can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a private and introspective manner. This tool can serve as a reminder to employees just how much they contribute to the organisation and how much they are learning as they go.
A Different Approach To Corporate Wellbeing: Offering Spiritual Support and Resources
In addition to the different approaches, you can also consider offering spiritual support and resources to your employees. This could include access to spiritual counselling or workshops on various spiritual traditions that allow employees to broaden their understanding and appreciation of diverse spiritual perspectives.
By providing access to qualified spiritual counsellors or coaches who can offer one-on-one support and guidance to employees, they can begin to deepen their spiritual wellbeing and their understanding of how they fit into a much wider spiritual community.
How to Implement Different Approaches to Corporate Spiritual Wellbeing
Implementing these different approaches to corporate wellbeing may require a shift in organisational culture and a willingness to think outside the box. Start by assessing the needs and interests of your employees, and then work closely with your HR and leadership teams to develop a comprehensive strategy that aligns with your company’s values and objectives. For example, within the community your company is based, how do you want your organisation to be seen and does that align with the company mission?
It’s important to remember that the implementation of these approaches should be congruent, voluntary and inclusive, respecting the diverse beliefs and preferences of your employees. Provide ample opportunities for feedback and continuous improvement, and be prepared to adapt your initiatives as needed to ensure their long-term success.
Benefits of Prioritising Workplace Spiritual Wellbeing
By prioritising workplace spiritual wellbeing, you can expect to see a range of benefits for both your employees and your organisation as a whole. These benefits may include:
- Increased job satisfaction and engagement
- Improved mental health and reduced stress and burnout
- Enhanced creativity, innovation, and problem-solving abilities
- Stronger sense of purpose, meaning, and connection among employees
- Improved employee retention and reduced turnover
- Enhanced reputation and attractiveness as an employer of choice
Whilst the benefits should be approached as a qualitative measure, it is easy to calculate the quantitative benefits of retaining employees.
Challenges and Considerations to Keep in Mind
While the benefits of prioritising workplace spiritual wellbeing are numerous, it’s important to be mindful of the potential challenges and considerations involved. Some key factors to keep in mind include ensuring that your initiatives are sensitive to the diverse beliefs and backgrounds of your employees, and that they are inclusive and welcoming to all.
Additionally, participation in any spiritual or personal growth activities should always be voluntary, and employees should never feel pressured or coerced to participate. Your HR department can help you to maintain clear boundaries between personal and professional matters, and help you ensure that any spiritual or personal growth initiatives do not interfere with the core business operations or professional conduct.
Finding a Different Approach to Corporate Wellbeing
Whilst traditional approaches to corporate wellbeing have their place, there is a growing movement of employees seeking a deeper connection to something much larger to be facilitated by the place they find they spend the majority of their time. Whether this is corporate sponsored community events, a programme of personal development training or repurposing a room in the building for quiet reflection, nurturing the spiritual dimension of an individual can lead to numerous benefits for an employer as well as having a positive impact for the individuals and communities being served.
References
Credit where credit is due, we aim to cite our sources because we value truthful content. 1 source was referenced during research to write this content, but you are encouraged to follow our links as well.
1) Dennis Duchon, Donde Ashmos Plowman, Nurturing the spirit at work: Impact on work unit performance, The Leadership Quarterly, Volume 16, Issue 5, 2005
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