Do you feel like you have to hide your spirituality when you’re at work or running your own company? Some might argue that spiritual practices don’t belong in the workplace or company environment; that any working environment – especially corporate – doesn’t jive with the principles of spirituality.
I wholeheartedly disagree.
By definition, spirituality is the science of well-being – applicable to all ages and all people, of any gender. The question then becomes, can I apply the science of well-being to professional success?
The answer is – of course you can!
You must invite all of yourself – including your own individual brand of spirituality – to your workplace or your own company (even if you work from your home office). In fact, I believe that it’s only through doing so that you are able to create the greatest professional success for yourself.
So how does one go about introducing spirituality into the workplace?
1. Remember to Keep Yourself Grounded and Centered
One of the fundamental principles of spirituality is to be fully present in every moment. In order to do so, you must remember to keep yourself grounded and centered, in your own truth. Start each day with deep breathing and/or meditation.
Later, if you start feeling overwhelmed, out of sorts, or a bit stressed out at the office, remember that it’s okay to take a time out. Get up from your desk, take a short walk – even if it’s only around the office or to the bathroom. Close your eyes. And, breathe. Do a few simple yoga poses or a short meditation. Some people might think that they must work harder to overcome the stress and negativity that can overwhelm us when working to a tight deadline or in collaboration with a difficult co-worker or boss. The reality, however, is that often, it’s in stepping away – even if it’s only for five minutes – that can give us the clarity, focus, and/or inspiration we need to break through the stress, overwhelm, and anxiety.
Another way to keep yourself rooted in your own truth is to make sure you dress in a way that strikes a balance between who you are and your profession. For example, even though I work in a corporate environment I like to wear bright colors. Not only does this reflect my own, unique personality and style, and, positively influence my own mood throughout the day. Bright colors also have the added bonus of positively influencing those around me.
Think about the ways in which you can keep yourself grounded and centered while at the office and be sure to practice them regularly!
2. Practice Compassion
Though it goes without saying, refrain from judging your coworkers or your boss. Take nothing personally. Ask questions instead of making assumptions. Learn to agree to disagree. If someone doesn’t see things in the same way as you, even if you know you’re right, remember that they’re doing the best they can with what they have at that moment and their response or reaction has more to do with them than you. Always speak from your heart as opposed to your ego and try to see things from a different perspective. Remember that, more often than not, it’s better to be kind than right.
3. Let Go and Let the Divine Take the Lead
Remember that you are an extension of universal energy at all times. Let go of control so you can allow your connection to the universe to guide you (aka your intuition) to make the best decisions for you, at all times – especially at work. Even if it means saying no to something that might seem like a good fit. Always check-in with yourself and let your emotions and intuition be your guide. If it feels good – go for it. If not, pay attention and heed the message that your intuition has for you. Sometimes passing on what seems like an amazing opportunity (at the time) will ultimately lead to greater satisfaction and success. By letting your intuition be your guide you will ensure that you’re always bringing your best self to your work, each and every day.
4. Style Your Work Space with Intention
If you’re like most people, you spend a good portion of your waking hours at work. Just as you spend time and care organizing and arranging your home in a way that reflects who you are, what you like, and what’s important to you, it’s essential to do the same with your workspace You want the environment that immediately surrounds you to support you, so you can bring your best self to your work.
Consider surrounding yourself with art, images, and/or photos. Of family and/or friends. Places you’ve traveled to or would like to go. Or, your favorite angel, prophet, or Jesus or God. Or maybe even a world leader such as the Dalai Lama, Nelson Mandela, Gandhi or Amma. Style your space with your favorite crystals, a singing bowl, or a symbol that is particularly meaningful to you.
For me, I consider both my workplace and my coworkers as extensions of my life and family – my workspace is as much of a sanctuary as my home. Though I may work in the corporate world, I’ve intentionally styled my cubicle to be an extension of my own personal brand of spirituality. For example, I have a few crystals (these are a few of my favorite: rose quartz, crystal quartz, and amethyst). I’ve included an image of Buddha, who bids hello to anyone passing by my desk. And my Jesus pictures, a small glance towards which reminds me to practice patience and compassion. Small though they may be, these tokens bring me tranquility throughout the day, especially when I’m under pressure.
By bringing spiritual practices such as these into the workplace, (even if you are an entrepreneur working for yourself) work can become a much more meaningful, enjoyable experience. And, not only for you. Remember that whatever spiritually-infused actions you take may end up positively influencing your co-workers, your employees too. Not to mention the fact that when you are less stressed and feeling good, your productivity increases. So, don’t be shy about bringing spirituality into the workplace – it may end up being one of the tools that help ensure your professional success.