Approaches to Implement Spirituality in Business

Abstract

Current managerial discourse and practices are dominated by the pioneering ideology of neo-liberalism, which translates to individual self-interest. This mode of functioning results in socially and environmentally dysfunctional organizations. The root cause of this phenomenon is the organization's narrow focus on profi tability and short-term pursuits. Strategy is short-term and narrowly focused and excludes aspects of business that benefi t from longer term thinking such as competitiveness and sustainability. Integrating a spiritual perspective and cultivating spiritual qualities and vision in the individuals making up an organization leads to broader, long-term focus and fosters business competitiveness and sustainability. One approach to implementing spirituality is Practical Compassion, an approach drawn from seers, sages and ancient wisdom. This article discusses a down to earth and practical approach to implementing spirituality in the corporate environment. We will explore implementation (and measurement) of this approach by use of some of the popular performance measurement frameworks and models. The aim is to conceptualize, develop, and foster the use of a 'spirituality scorecard' as a tool to implement spirituality. We explore the methods and implications of integrating this approach in some of the world's leading corporations by demonstrating use of the spirituality scorecard.

Spiritual Organization: A Path to Organizational Sustainable Excellence

“…Mission statements should show and demonstrate a commitment to adopt business activities and make decisions that contribute to the common good with a consideration for social justice and environmental protection. (Thaker, 2009). …”

“…Empowerment (true liberty) allows and encourages an employee to look for what may benefit the whole organization, rather than being concerned with specific job assignment only. (Thaker, 2009). …”

Transforming an Organization into a Spiritual One: A Five- Pathway Integrated Framework

“…The spiritual revival in the workplace is attributed, according to Fernand and Gross (2006), Dente et al (2005) to a broader religious awakening in America. Thaker (2009) proclaimes that current managerial discourse and practices are dominated by neo-liberalism, which translates to individual self-interest". Thaker adds that "modern business challenges can't be met with knowledge -based tools, technical strategies and processes dealing with the physical realm.…”

“…Based on the Practical Compassion framework developed by Lips-Wiersma and Nilakant, Thaker proclaims that mission statements should reflect a commitment to pursue business activities and decisions that contribute to the common good and keep in mind social justice and environmental protection (Thaker, 2009).…”

“…True empowerment can significantly contribute to human development which is essential to build spirituality at workplace. True liberty, argues Thaker (2009), implies that employees at all levels have liberty and may participate or have a say in strategic decisions and are encouraged to take part in company's management, social responsibilities, and all other activities at an appropriate level. True liberty, adds the author, permits employees to develop and explore that which is of benefit for all greater whole, and not only confined to the specific job assigned to an employee.…”