[responsivevoice]There comes a point in everyone’s journey where they turn inward and begin to focus on self-actualization, clarity, and finding meaning through their business. Whether you have created a successful company or have finally landed your dream position, you can have your life’s work transition into helping others. This could be anything from donating to charity, volunteering time, or even overhauling their company culture and introducing these charitable goals into the workplace. Your energy and attitude can affect everyone around you.
Leading with positivity is the first step when introducing meaning to the workplace. Servant leadership is a concept that was introduced by Robert K Greenleaf in 1970. A servant-leader focuses on the growth and well-being of people and the communities to which they belong. Instead of a power at the top style, the servant leader will be in the trenches with their employees and helps develop them to perform at their highest capacity. Prudential Retirement began the practice of positive leadership during their merger with Cigna. Moral was low and the culture from each company did not align initially. They focused on what the company can do, instead of what they cannot do and came out successful on the other side.
One of the biggest differences between large household names and your business is the connection to your community. Donating time or money shows your community that you are in business for more than just profits. Take the time to find a cause that naturally aligns with your business’s mission and values, whether it is local or national. There may be more than one that you want to dedicate your resources to that you never realized was even out there. We all wish we could do everything possible to help those in need, but also remember to protect your business. Be smart along with being charitable.
Take an audit of all of the negative things in the office. How much of the news that circulates is actually contributing to negativity? If the content is pulling you and your team down, it is time to throw it out. Consciously make an effort to share only positive newsworthy stories, whether it is industry related or not. You can also bring positivity into the breakroom by streaming uplifting podcasts during lunch hours. According to research by Deloitte, employees ranked intangible elements like communication, recognition, and access to management, the most important part of company culture.
Any leader has the opportunity to go all in on changing the workplace atmosphere. The power of choice and attitude comes from yourself. You can decide whether or not to go all in on every workday and bring all your enthusiasm and excitement, no matter what is going on in your personal life. Go all in on being a servant-leader. Bring positivity to your coworkers and donate what you can to those in need. [/responsivevoice]