Creating Kindness in the Business World
In the environment success thrives not on strategy and foresight but also on kindness. Creating a workplace is not a luxury; it is a strategic necessity that brings tangible benefits. Exploring evidence based methods reveals how embracing kindness can improve health outcomes enhance commitment and boost productivity. Lets delve into the details;
Six Key Principles for Fostering Kindness in the Workplace
1.Gratitude as a Transformative Force
Embracing gratitude has the power to revolutionize relationships. Creating a culture of appreciation goes beyond gestures—it requires acknowledging others contributions. Foster an environment where gratitude naturally flows.
- Start with something place thank you cards in areas.
- Better lead by example—write your heartfelt notes of appreciation..
- For digitally connected teams use platforms like Paperless Post to ensure that expressions of gratitude have no boundaries.
2. Valued Recognition. The Foundation of Morale
Recognising. Acknowledging team members efforts strengthens bonds among co-workers.
- Research highlights the link between recognition and enhanced performance levels.
- Take time during team meetings.
- Use communication platforms, like Slack to commend work done by individuals or groups. Thoughtful gifts tailored to preferences can also make an impact.
- Lets make sure employees feel valued and important, by celebrating their birthdays and anniversaries. It’s a significant step towards creating a work environment.
- Acts of kindness have an effect that benefits both the giver and the receiver as shown by studies. It reminds us of our shared experience. Lets foster a culture where kind gestures become nature like holding the door open or sharing uplifting
We all know that good food can lift our spirits. Research suggests that providing snacks and meals to employees significantly boosts morale. Consider stocking the pantry with treats or offering meal delivery perks as a way to show care and appreciation.
When it comes to giving feedback lets remember Kim Scotts Radical Candor approach, which emphasises criticism delivered with empathy. Lets create an environment where feedback is not heard but also valued. For teams prioritise video chats over emails to maintain a sense of human connection.
Leaders have the power to reduce workplace stress through gestures.
Discover the Magic of Gestures; Your Weapon Against Workplace Stress
Have you ever experienced the pressure of a deadline or the tension of a heated meeting? You’re not alone. Dealing with stress, at work is a challenge.. Here’s a hidden gem that can make all the difference; gestures. Yes you read that right! Your hands, body language and even facial expressions can be game changers. Lets delve into this toolkit that can help you conquer the challenges of your workplace;
Breathe & Lift;
Feeling overwhelmed by stress? Take a moment to pause and gather yourself. Take a breath while raising your hands from your waist to chest level palms facing upwards. Exhale slowly turn your palms downwards. Gradually lower your hands. It’s like having a meditation session in seconds!
The “T” Power Move;
When you sense a conversation becoming heated and heading towards boiling point try using the recognised “time out” sign – form both of your hands into a ‘T’ shape. It acts as a pause button for everyone involved allowing them to regroup.
Stand Like a Superhero;
Before embarking on a task or challenge tap into your superhero mode. Stand tall, with your feet apart. Place your hands confidently on your hips. Not does it make you feel empowered. There is also scientific evidence supporting its positive effects.
This technique called the ‘power pose’ helps boost your confidence and keeps stress at bay.
The Magic Touch;
A gentle pat, on the back or a reassuring touch on a co-workers shoulder can do wonders. It’s like giving them a pep talk that says, “You’ve got this” without uttering a word. (Remember to respect boundaries.)
Hands to Heart;
Feeling overwhelmed? Try bringing your hands at your heart. It’s not just for yoga enthusiasts; it’s a way to show gratitude to yourself and find a moment of calm.
Reach for the Sky;
Raise your arms up high as if you’re taking a mini break for yourself. This action helps refresh your mind and release tension.
Open Up;
Uncross your arms sit up straight and be open in posture. Not will you appear approachable but you’ll also feel less confined by stress.
Smile & Connect;
A genuine smile accompanied by good eye contact can make all the difference. It’s like conveying the message “We’re, in this together.”
Hands; Your Grounding Tool;
When feeling stressed out focus on your hands. Rub them gently. Feel their warmth as it helps bring you into the present moment.
Here’s a revised version;
Sometimes when you’ve been working on the computer for long it can be helpful to take a moment and bring yourself back, to the present. One quick way to do this is by rubbing your hands to warm them up. Then gently placing them over your eyes. It’s like taking a mini vacation for your eyes! So if things, at work are feeling overwhelming just remember that you have a toolkit at your disposal. You can use these gestures to find some calm amidst the chaos. All why let stress get the best of you when you can simply wave it away?
David Alssema is a Body Language Expert and Motivational Speaker. As a performer in the personal development industry in Australia he has introduced and created new ways to inspire, motivate and develop individuals.
David Alssema started his training career with companies such as Telstra and Optus Communications, and then developed Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) within workplace training as principal of Paramount Training & Development.
As an author/media consultant on body language and professional development David has influenced workplaces across Australia. He contributes to Media such as The West Australian, ABC Radio, Australian Magazines and other Australia Media Sources.