Where to Now?

I have previously defined "Spirituality in the Workplace" as the integration of humanistic values with sound business practices. The point here is that the two are not incompatible even under dire circumstances. Diversity is a prime example of a workplace phenomenon driven by leadership's strong commitment to create organizational cultures where there is equity of opportunity for all employees. No matter how business-intelligent this process might be, in the final analysis, a leader becomes unconditionally committed to such a goal when there is an inner source that drives results-oriented behaviors and expectations. I would suggest that such a source is spiritual in origin.

With these thoughts in mind, I have defined "Eight Principles of Spirituality in the Workplace."

1) Spirituality is that which comes from within--and is expressed in an undefined number of ways.

2) High Performance is driven by passion--that comes from within.

3) Alignment is the key to high perfomance--and essential for cooperation, collaboration, and cross-functional integration.

4) Trust is the interpersonal glue that creates alignment--and essential for empowered operation.

5) Centeredness is the result of integrating body, mind and spirit--and a prerequisite for resolving inevitable conflict, crisis, and challenges.

6) Creativity is one's natural birthhright--and key to adaptation to rapid, accelerated change.

7) Wellness is the adoption of a holistic approach to individual and organizational well-being--ensuring work-life quality, balance, and integration.

8) Wisdom is an in-depth understanding, empathy, and compassion for the human experience.

I will be discussing each of these principles in the coming week to show how they might be practically implemented in your workplace.

Coming in 2006, "Spirituality and the Workplace Retreat at Snowbird Utah."