In our book, Meaning-Centered Leadership: Skills and Strategies for Increased Employee Well-Being and Organizational Success we describe how leaders can activate multiple pathways to meaning. When employees find their work meaningful they are happier, healthier, more productive, and three times as likely to stay in their organizations. Unfortunately, recent survey data suggest much work is needed.
Survey research suggests over 90% of employees report burnout. The respondents describe having unmanageable stress and frustration. In fact, they report that high levels of stress negatively impact their relationships.
There are multiple drivers of burnout. Deadlines or expectations that are unrealistic and consistently working long hours and weekends are among the top three. The highest reported reason for burnout is lack of support or recognition from leadership.
In part II of our book, we describe the importance of authentic recognition. Judging by the results of this data, simply recognizing people in authentic ways can lessen the burnout that employees experience.
Failure to recognize the efforts of employees while requesting unreasonable workloads leads to workplace toxicity. A workplace full of anger and animosity creates stress and distances workers from their best efforts.
To begin reversing this trend in your organization, reach out to us today at info@meaningcenteredleadership.com. By taking a Meaning-Centered approach, leaders and their organizations can benefit from the increased productivity, positivity, and well-being that workers experience when they find their work meaningful.
