Looking at organizations from abundance: an exciting and scientifically validated approach
We live in a world where skepticism often challenges our ability to see the world from abundance, but fortunately we have powerful tools, such as Appreciative Inquiry, to change a perspective that, in addition to being “grey”, takes us nowhere. However, some might dismiss these practices as mere fantasies or subjectivities without scientific basis. Today we want to put the opposite argument: that the culture of abundance and Appreciative Inquiry are rooted in science, specifically in the discoveries of neuroscience.
The neuroscience behind Appreciative Inquiry
Neuroscience has revealed that our minds have remarkable plasticity – that is, they can be shaped by our experiences and cognitive approaches. The “positive brain” theory suggests that positive thinking and the emotions associated with gratitude and appreciation can reshape brain structure and function, strengthening the neural connections associated with happiness and well-being.
Scientific studies have shown that the regular practice of gratitude, for example, is linked to changes in brain activity in areas associated with processing emotions and regulating stress. In the same way, Appreciative Inquiry, by focusing on strengths and achievements, activates areas of the brain associated with motivation, resilience and creativity.
Therefore, the idea of seeing the world from abundance, that is to say, from what organizations and their people DO have, or – what is the same – from their strengths, on which the proposal of Madavi The YES Company is based, is not an act of “crazy or magical thinking”, but a scientifically based process that can remodel our brain.
But, for what purpose? Implementing a culture of abundance translates – at surprising speed – into tangible and quantifiable results with regard to business.
Leadership from abundance, preaching by example
Leaders play a crucial role in promoting this organizational culture based on abundance, on the things that they do have. Resonant leaders adopt a mindset of abundance, focusing on their team’s strengths and achievements, and fostering an environment of support and growth. These leaders inspire others and cultivate a sense of purpose and community.
By contrast, dissonant leaders cling to a mentality of scarcity, focusing on mistakes and shortcomings, and promoting a climate of criticism and distrust. These leaders undermine morale and hinder their team’s potential.
Effective leaders not only understand the importance of viewing the organization from abundance, but they also practice what they preach. They model an optimistic and appreciative approach on their own work and communication, setting the tone for the entire organization.
According to Jackie Stavros, internationally recognized professor, author, and consultant in the field of change management, appreciation, and appreciative inquiry, “for every negative comment you make to your team, you have to make four positive comments so that the team will function properly again.” In her opinion, when giving feedback to your team, “if you highlight the positive and show them your support for what they believe can be improved, they’ll be more receptive and will listen to you.” When you give feedback, you have to do so thinking how it will generate feedforward, that is, how to keep moving in a positive direction.
When leaders adopt an abundance mindset and commit to cultivating an environment focused on strengths, they promote commitment within their teams. This not only benefits the well-being of employees, but also drives movement and transformation.
Now that you know that it is not about intuition, but about science…If you want to implement an ecosystem of abundance in your organization that will make an impact, with very positive results, in Culture and Business, don’t hesitate to contact us here.
