In the fast-paced world of modern work, organizations continually seek ways to enhance employee engagement, foster creativity, and promote overall well-being. One often-overlooked but profoundly impactful emotion that can drive these outcomes is awe. Experiencing awe in the workplace can stimulate creativity, increase engagement, improve mental health, strengthen social connections, and ultimately elevate employee well-being.
The Benefits of Awe at Work
1. Stimulating Creativity and Innovation
Awe has the remarkable ability to expand our thinking and open our minds to new possibilities. When employees encounter awe-inspiring experiences—such as witnessing groundbreaking work, engaging with visionary leaders, or participating in transformative projects—they are more likely to think creatively and innovatively. This expanded mindset leads to fresh ideas and solutions that can drive the organization forward.
2. Increasing Engagement and Commitment
Awe can rekindle a sense of purpose and passion for one’s work. When employees feel a deep sense of admiration and wonder about their tasks or the broader mission of the organization, their engagement levels soar. This renewed enthusiasm not only enhances individual performance but also strengthens overall commitment to the organization’s goals and values.
3. Improving Mental Health and Reducing Stress
Experiencing awe can have a calming and grounding effect, reducing stress and promoting a sense of well-being. In the workplace, awe can serve as a counterbalance to the pressures and demands of daily tasks. By incorporating awe-inspiring moments—such as showcasing the impact of the company’s work or celebrating significant achievements—organizations can help employees maintain better mental health and resilience.
4. Strengthening Social Connections
Awe often evokes a sense of connection to something larger than oneself, fostering a feeling of unity and togetherness. In a work environment, this can translate to stronger social bonds among employees. Team-building activities, inspirational events, and collaborative projects that invoke awe can enhance camaraderie, teamwork, and a sense of community within the workplace.
5. Enhancing Overall Employee Well-being
The cumulative effect of awe on creativity, engagement, mental health, and social connections significantly contributes to overall employee well-being. When employees regularly experience awe, they are more likely to feel fulfilled, motivated, and valued. This positive emotional state supports a thriving workplace where employees are not only productive but also genuinely happy and healthy.
Creating Awe-Inspiring Experiences at Work
Leaders play a crucial role in fostering a culture of awe in the workplace. Here are some strategies to create awe-inspiring experiences:
– Meaningful Projects: Encourage involvement in projects that have a significant impact, whether on the organization, community, or broader society. Seeing the real-world effects of their work can inspire awe and pride in employees.
– Inspiring Leadership: Leaders who demonstrate visionary thinking, empathy, and a commitment to values can inspire awe in their teams. Sharing stories of overcoming challenges and achieving great things can motivate and uplift employees.
– Engaging Events: Organize events that bring employees together to celebrate achievements, share knowledge, and recognize contributions. Guest speakers, workshops, and team-building activities can provide moments of awe and inspiration.
– Showcasing Achievements: Regularly highlight and celebrate the accomplishments of individuals and teams. Recognizing the extraordinary efforts and successes within the organization can instill a sense of awe and appreciation.
Incorporating awe into the workplace is not just about creating memorable moments; it’s about building a culture that values inspiration, connection, and well-being. By fostering awe-inspiring experiences, leaders can unlock the full potential of their employees, driving creativity, engagement, and overall happiness. In turn, a workplace infused with awe is a thriving, dynamic environment where both individuals and the organization can flourish.
Sources
- Awe Expands People’s Perception of Time, Alters Decision Making, and Enhances Well-Being
- Can Awe Boost Health?
- Eight Reasons Why Awe Makes Your Life Better
- Awe Expands People’s Perception of Time, Alters Decision Making, and Enhances Well-Being – Melanie Rudd, Kathleen D. Vohs, Jennifer Aaker, 2012 (sagepub.com)
- Awe, daily stress, and elevated life satisfaction. (apa.org)
- Approaching awe, a moral, spiritual, and aesthetic emotion: Cognition and Emotion: Vol 17, No 2 (tandfonline.com)
Author: Emma Carpenter
Manager of Operations and Workplace Wellness Strategist, BSC, Health Promotion
Emma has over 20 years of experience in the area of leadership and workplace health promotion and has worked with many private sector and public organizations in Canada and Europe helping them build a health promoting culture and design custom wellness solutions. Emma is passionate about designing workplace wellness solutions that help people reach their full potential by empowering them and giving them confidence and tools to make lasting lifestyle changes.
