Exploring Spirituality in the Workplace

I’ve always been a strong advocate of exalting the value of human capital in the workplace. But to what extent can human beings flourish as “souls” at work, and not just another cog in the corporate wheel?

The International Center for Spirit at Work Awards brings that debate to the forefront every year by honoring companies which have aligned themselves with certain criteria, and created a corporate culture that encourages employees to embrace their spiritual nature. It’s not a far fetched notion, but in fact, one we might see more of. Take, for example, The Soul of Leadership program being taught at the Kellogg School of Management. Deepak Chopra will be lecturing on a new approach to leadership that combines spiritual wisdom with a psychological component.

In an effort to explore the debate and current innovations in corporate America around the topic of spirituality in the workplace, The WorkLife Monitor along with DeSai Learning’s and Director Thomas Clifford covered the 2006 awards last year. Click here to view a 7 minute video which gives you a taste of the conversation on this still-evolving concept.

The debate around religion and spirituality in the workplace picked up steam shortly after the events of 9/11. Many of us donned a more sensitive “human hat” in all aspects of our lives. Religion, faith, spirituality, values, ethics, morals, beliefs, dogma – you name it – were all conversation pieces back then as we wrestled with facing our own mortality.

Now, six years after the events of September 11th, we are not only faced with continued concern about terrorism, but on a more practical level, work life balance in a 24/7 world. We are fighting burnout, fighting to stay on top and fighting to stay connected in a never-ending world of Infomania.

Maybe we have to give spirituality or serenity in the myriad forms it takes, a chance to be employed in our work lives. Maybe it can help us cultivate resilience in our chaotic times. Maybe not. Keep in mind, it’s less about religion than in finding new ways to raise consciousness, find a little serenity and avoid burnout while tackling the global issues that need attention. Why now, why spirituality, why consciousness – why business? Because I believe business and the media are the greatest agents of social change. What do you think?

You can also write to me at info@JudyMartinSpeaks.com if you have an innovative story about incorporating spirituality in the workplace. And head to JudyMartinSpeaks.com for podcasts on the topic.