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TGIM |
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staffs university |
TGIM: THANK GOD IT'S MONDAY Abstract As the notion of 'spiritual intelligence' in the workplace becomes increasingly well established, the significance of spirituality becomes more of an issue. This paper presents an exploration into the workplace training implications of the search for meaning, wellญbeing, spirituality and the 'beyondness of things'. It argues that it is important for training and development staff to have at least a basic understanding of the role of meaning and spirituality in the workplace in general and in occupational learning in particular. Introduction This paper explores some of the contemporary search for meaning and well-being which is beginning to have an impact upon organisations as well as upon individuals. Linked by some to the concept of spirituality, this debate takes us to the heart of an organisation's life and productivity, and raises profound challenges for both trainers and managers who wish to develop their organisation to its fullest potential, and to enable their employees to take pride in, and gain satisfaction from, their involvement and the contribution they make to the organisation's life and purpose. The paper uses up-to-date research findings from Roffey Park's Management Agenda Survey (Holbeche and Springett, 2004) to highlight much contemporary dis-ease and dissatisfaction amongst employees, many of whom are seeking meaning and purpose in the workplace rather than just in their leisure pursuits. Far from being 'soft and irrelevant', these issues should be seen to be central not only to an organisation's purpose, but also to its success and profitability. There is a strong business argument for taking these issues seriously, which is why these findings provide a major challenge for employers and trainers, as they seek to explore the links between a sense of meaning, purpose and high productivity in their organisation. This discussion makes strong links with learning organisation theory', with its emphasis upon developing flexible, creative approaches, and involving employers and employees at all levels in the drive towards excellence, in which everyone in the organisation is valued and encouraged. Again, meaning and purpose become key themes to be explored. The paper concludes with making some links with the contemporary debate about spirituality which is characterised by an emphasis upon meaning and well-being, and goes on to suggest ways in which employees can be better valued and an organisation more productive and successful, when spirituality issues are taken seriously.
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all material copyright Bernard Moss 2007 - site last updated 13 May 2008 - a blueshawk web |
