The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 41.5% of U.S. adults in 2021 have exhibited recent anxiety and/or depression symptoms. While workplace stress may not be the root cause of anxiety and depression for many Americans, a stress-inducing work environment certainly doesn’t help the mental health crisis in America. Fortunately, many workplace leaders are aware of this and making an effort to create a more mindful workplace. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), mindfulness is “a moment-to-moment awareness of one’s experience without judgment.” The APA further states the benefits of mindfulness to include:
- Stress Reduction
- Reduced Rumination
- An Increase in Working Memory
- Better Focus
- Less Emotional Reactivity
- More Cognitive Flexibility
- Relationship Satisfaction
Workplaces could greatly benefit from mindfulness. Mindfulness in the workplace can also help alleviate worker burnout—something often associated with anxiety and depression. Companies and workplace leaders will start to see less burnout and possibly even turnover if they implement mindfulness into the workplace. So how can workplace leaders create a more mindful workplace? By exhibiting and creating an atmosphere that includes these four qualities.
Compassion
The common goal of a workplace can better be achieved with interpersonal skills such as compassion. Compassion, as well as empathy and self-acceptance, make collaboration a more manageable process. When you allow yourself to empathize with another person’s viewpoint, it’s easier to find a way to work together to accomplish a common goal. Workplace leaders can show compassion to employees through simple acts such as taking them to lunch or expressing appreciation through an informal conversation.
Flexibility
Leaders who practice mindfulness know how to be flexible. Flexibility is the key to mindfulness. Being flexible means accepting new information without judgment. Flexibility allows for new and innovative ideas to emerge. Flexibility also means being open to feedback and willing to change based on the feedback received.
Being Present
Remaining present is an essential quality of a mindful leader. Being present allows for new and creative solutions to come about more easily. Present leaders have an easier time creating new goals and collaborating to achieve those goals with employees. Being present also means being proactive and not being afraid to take matters into your own hands. A present leader is aware of their surroundings and knows how to respond effectively.
Authenticity
A mindful leader is authentic. Communication between employees should be from a place of honesty and authenticity. Being able to communicate honestly with your employees, even in challenging times, will help to create a more positive work environment. An authentic work environment allows employees to communicate and listen openly, enabling better employee development.
Become a Mindful Leader
If you want your leadership skills to blossom and thrive, it’s time to implement mindfulness into the workplace. Order your copy of Maximum Accountability today to learn more about mindfulness in the workplace!