Leaders Thinking Outside of the Box

Leaders should create an environment for "spirit" at work, but what does that mean?  It means thinking outside of the box.  One common element is that of reflection.  Many organizations encourage people to find time to reflect by providing quiet spaces to do so.  Some organizations allow people to have "reflection days" to use as they choose as long as the focus is on reflection.  Other organizations bring experts into the workplace to train people in mindful meditation techniques and allow people to practice it during the work day.  I know of one company that created a Workplace Spirituality Resource Manual to provide ideas about how to create a meaningful workplace.

Instead of "sick days," people are encouraged to take personal days to pursue interests to avoid becoming ill.  They reward people for not getting ill.  There are other ways to create this kind of environment, but it requires a different mindset on the part of leaders.  We need to create a place where people want to come to work since much of our lives is spent in the workplace.