Often, I have heard a leader say “we are a family” at work.
What they are really wanting to achieve, is to create a culture of belonging.
That term family is risky because every person has a different concept/experience of family, some people come from healthy loving families and some people come from broken families. Families may be controlling or care-free.
You get the point.
I know personally in my family, it’s not one where I get a performance review on how I contributed or even get paid to be there.
The aim however is for people to feel a sense of belonging and engage in the workplace.
A different way to measure a sense of belonging “an affinity for a place or situation” is how the heart feels in that space.
When someone says “I feel at home in this team/group” – that measure is where you have engaged the heart and mind, Create that culture.
What is a home?
“Home is where the heart is”
· A home is a place where you can always go to for safety.
· A home is where you can be yourself without judgement.
· A home is where the space is yours, to feel calm or at ease.
· A home is where you can have conversations that matter.
· A home is place that you choose to be there.
“It’s not the walls, or the furniture but the emotion that feels like home.”
From a business perspective…
What is the dominant emotion and feeling as people work together also known as the “vibe” in the office?
If the team are focused on the process with enthusiasm and respect, the results will be there.
Creating an environment with a sense of knowing that you are not judged, less blame and more curiosity is important.
If there is one thing to work on in the culture – it’s cultivating a sense of community (we not I) and enjoyment.
People spend more time at work and everyday should be a place that you enjoy going to (not only on team building days).
In a good environment, there may even be a sense of … “ I can’t wait to get to the office.”
When belonging is created, engagement is a by-product.
A tip from Brendon Burchard... Each doorway you walk through, use it as a cue to “bring the joy” until it becomes a habit.
Be intentional about the emotion and energy that you bring into your space called work.
In summary:
A mindset of belonging at work is the attitude that someone carries with them of acceptance, connection and knowing that no matter your background or role. You are valued. You play an important part of the team and that matters.
Written by Carla Wasserfall for Champions Uncovered Pty Ltd
Contact Champions Uncovered about a team engagement, one that helps you understand the core motivations that move people.
