In part two of this article, Lana Hindmarch, organisational wellbeing strategist and co-founder and CEO of BREATHE, delves deeper on how best organisations can adopt ubuntu's philosophy of collective responsibility to foster workplace wellbeing and prevent burnout.
A collective ubuntu approach to achieving "less"
While recognising that ‘less is more’ is a crucial first step, implementing this approach in a workplace culture addicted to ‘more’ presents a significant challenge.
How can we create an environment where ‘less’ is not just an individual aspiration, but a shared organisational value?
To be clear, I’m not advocating for less productivity, lower revenue, or less profits. Rather, I’m proposing a shift in how we achieve these goals – in a way that doesn’t come at the cost of our collective wellbeing.
One approach worth considering draws inspiration from ubuntu, an African philosophy that emphasises our interconnectedness and collective responsibility.
Ubuntu, generally translated as ‘I am because we are,’ applied to our burnout crisis, suggests that reducing individual burdens is not just a personal endeavour, but a shared one.
Embracing the ubuntu philosophy of interconnectedness and collective responsibility, we can transform our approach to workplace wellbeing. By viewing ‘less is more’ as a shared mission rather than an individual struggle, we open new possibilities for addressing burnout at its roots.
The following principles offer a guide for this collective journey, each targeting specific burdens that have become normalised at work.
1. Collective rhythm
Create a work environment that respects natural human rhythms of productivity and rest. Implement team-based approaches to managing schedules, reducing unnecessary meetings and the pressure to be constantly available.
2. Simplicity in systems
Regularly evaluate and streamline processes. Prioritise simplicity in all systems to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy and information overload, allowing for more creativity and focused work.
3. Purposeful connection
Shift from quantity to quality in workplace interactions. Establish clear communication norms that reduce email overload and discourage after-hours contact, emphasising meaningful, necessary connection.
4. Shared responsibility for wellbeing
Foster a culture where everyone at all levels, including reluctant leaders, recognises their role in maintaining a healthy environment. Create systems that reward collective efforts in balancing organisational goals with wellbeing.
5. Value of the pause
Recognise the importance of breaks and slowing down. Encourage a culture that values a sensible tempo over constant action, reducing the pressure of artificial deadlines and the need to always be ‘on.’
6. Holistic productivity
Redefine productivity to include not just output, but also sustainability and wellbeing. Focus on outcomes rather than micromanagement and eliminate unnecessary deadlines.
7. Intuitive workflow design
Collaboratively create work processes that feel natural. This reduces friction caused by overly rigid systems, minimising bureaucracy and potential for friction in the team.
8. Balanced tech transformation
Thoughtfully incorporate technology to enhance capabilities without creating additional stress. Implement tools that streamline communication without the expectation of constant connectivity.
9. Cultural congruence
Align organisational values with everyday practices. This consistency builds trust and provides a clear framework for addressing unhealthy behaviours.
10. Sustainable capacity
Treat our collective human energy as a precious resource. Foster practices that replenish energy to build sustainable, long-term performance.
The battle wages on
In ubuntu, we have a powerful framework for creating workplaces where burnout is the exception, not the rule. Everyone, regardless of their position, has a role to play in creating a healthier work environment.
We stand at a critical juncture. We can’t afford to normalise chronic stress and exhaustion, no matter how tired we are of this conversation or how tempting it might be to focus on just moving forward. Let’s not reach for off-the-shelf solutions that don’t resonate with our cultural context.
It’s time to embrace our wisdom and lead the way in showing the world how collective care can transform our work lives.
Let’s leverage the power of ‘I am because we are’ to ensure that none of us burn out, because we’re all holding each other up.
Read Part 1 of the article where where additional strategies and tactics are unveiled.
