In times of profound structural transformation, change, continuous learning and the development of innovation — an essential tool for enterprise — have already become the new business norm.
A key to achieving lasting results is to bring out an organisation’s strengths and foster a learning culture that equips people with skills and helps them discover themselves — in turn encouraging sustainable change. At the heart of every positive organisational change is the principle of collective participation.
Research shows that positive emotions, such as enthusiasm, unity, hope and joy, not only contribute to well-being but also affect us and help us become better at our jobs, more productive and more innovative, and think more intelligently and unconventionally — skills that are essential and highly desirable for businesses to progress in the future.
People, and the development and cultivation of positive emotions, therefore play a leading role in enabling a business to create, innovate and progress.
A business like this needs a positive leader: one who focuses on employees, believes in the value of well-being and supports individual flourishing. This leads to better performance, greater commitment to the organisation, lower levels of workplace burnout (occupational exhaustion) and more satisfied customers.
A positive leader co-creates with their people, guiding them effectively so that each can improve their abilities and skills. This increases the flow of positive emotions in the business, boosts job satisfaction and maximises performance. The leader focuses on people’s strengths while striving to become the best version of themselves.
* Management Consultant to the Association of Chief Executive Officers (EASE).