The contemplative organization
Journal of Organizational Change Management February 1, 2004 DOI: 10.1108/09534810410511297 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Qualitative study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 79 |
| Population | Founders or leaders of organizations where contemplative practices play a key role in secular settings |
| Key findings | Proposes that "the contemplative organization" is an emerging model characterized by infusing contemplative practices into all aspects of work, embodying mission and values, cycling between action and reflection, balancing product with process, and reflecting contemplative philosophy in structure. Interviewees reported improved communication and a greater sense of team and community. |
Abstract
As part of a qualitative research project to map the use of contemplative practices in secular settings, in‐depth interviews were conducted with 79 people who have founded or lead organizations where contemplative practices play a key role. In a number of interviews, contemplative practices were introduced into the workplace not only as ancillary stress‐reduction techniques for individuals, but as a core part of the organization's structure. As interviewees described how their organizations function, a number of characteristics pointed toward “the contemplative organization” as an emerging model of an organization that infuses a contemplative approach into the workplace. Such an organization strives to incorporate contemplative practices into all aspects of work; embody and explore organizational mission and values; move between cycles of action and reflection; balance product with process; and have an organizational structure that reflects a contemplative philosophy. Interviewees also reported the impact of contemplative practice in the workplace, including improved communication and a greater sense of team and community.