Holiday spirit can and should be year-round

We're in the midst of a festive holiday season-a time of beautiful lights, wonderful music, special occasions with family and friends. People are a little different this time of year. Many of us are noticeably more thankful, generous, loving, hopeful, kind and joyful.

Something similar happens in times of crisis or special need. People find they are capable of exceptional courage, determination, sacrifice, or other qualities. We may surprise ourselves to discover what we can do.

What is it that inspires us during holidays and in crises? According to the dictionary, the animating force in people, what makes us fully alive is our "spirit." Our spirituality is what empowers us to "come to life" and be who we are at our best-in our private lives and at work.

Spirit in the Workplace

You and your employees bring spirituality to the workplace. That is, you bring your highest sense of personal character, ethics, values, purpose, and much more-everything that makes you and your employees alive and productive. Some authors call this "corporate soul."

Does your company engage the spirituality of your people? As you walk around, are your employees noticeably excited about their work and passionate about what the business is accomplishing? Do they have the "holiday spirit?" In times of corporate crisis, do they find renewed strength and demonstrate exceptional courage and determination?

Fostering Spirit

Fostering spirituality is not some new program offered by a consulting firm. It's the way you and your employees work together to bring out the best in each other. You provide a place where you and your employees can develop company spirit when you:

o Help employees find their strengths, develop and flourish.

o Act with respect, dignity, trust and caring.

o Show that the company has a conscience.

o Facilitate positive relationships and a sense of belonging.

o Produce high quality goods and services.

o Tell the whole truth and keep your promises.

o Encourage employees' healthy work/life balance.

o Demonstrate a commitment to the quality of life and environmental sustainability.

o Work from vision and values.

Embrace spirituality in your workplace. Help your employees move from just having a job to being in a place where they can be fully alive. As they come alive, your business will thrive.

Glen Rediehs, Ph.D. is an organization development consultant, trainer and coach. He helps owners and managers increase performance and develop leadership in their teams and organizations. You can contact Glen at 704-788-9184 or Glen@SolutionLeader.com