Mindful Leadership For Dummies

Chapter 2

Discovering Why Mindfulness Matters to Leaders

IN THIS CHAPTER

Examining the leadership challenges of the modern workplace

Identifying sources of workplace pressure

Discovering mindful ways to improve your leadership

Media interest in mindfulness has exploded in the last few years. In parallel, the research base that connects mindfulness with decreased anxiety, depression and stress and increased resilience has become relatively well known. As the popularity of mindfulness has increased, interest has grown in the potential of mindfulness to transform the way people work. As interest and uptake of training has increased, researchers have started to explore its impact on workplace productivity, creativity and employee well-being. Research suggests that mindfulness aids focus, concentration and decision-making and improves relationships.

This chapter explores the role of mindfulness in modern leadership. It offers you some practical tips to help you improve your leadership by applying a little mindfulness.

Leadership Challenges of the Modern Workplace

To discover why mindfulness matters, you need to consider the leadership environment you’re currently operating within. Are you working in a VUCA world? Is change now the norm, rather than the exception? Its also wise to consider the sources of workplace pressure that can lead to stress. Doing so can help you develop mindful ways to increase resilience and maintain well-being.

Leading in a VUCA world

The concept of a ‘VUCA ...