Workplace Spirituality and Leadership-Inspirations from The Bhagwad Gita

Abstract

Workplace spirituality involves the effort to find one’s ultimate purpose in life, to develop a strong connection to co-workers and other people associated with work, and to have consistency (or alignment) between one’s core beliefs and the values of their organization For the purpose of this paper workplace spirituality is being considered as having three important dimensions in any organization; namely; the individual, the group and the organization. Workplace spirituality at the individual level means meaningful work for the employees, at the group level, a sense of community and at the organizational level, an alignment with the organizations values and goals respectively. The Bhagwad Gita is a text that is relevant across all cultures and religions as it urges a philosophy of life which if followed leads to ultimate peace and sublime bliss and a stress free life. Each Chapter of The Bhagwad Gita may be interpreted as a sutra of leadership and if practiced will enable leadership at three levels namely, individual (being aware and having control of one’s mind and thoughts), at the team/group level (idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation and individualized consideration), and finally at the organizational level (managing the organizational environment and culture to align personal and professional goals, have a deep sense of duty and to accept responsibility of action.