Summary: In the quest for healthier work settings, the concepts of peace and harmony emerge as crucial pillars. Both ideas advocate for positive change. Let’s examine which offers a better route for long-term well-being at work.
Dear Dr. Sylvia,
We are having an interesting “intellectual argument” at work.
Many are tired of all the conflict between various parts of our organization.
For example, marketing wants more money for their projects, claiming they are the force to bring in new customers.
On the other hand, sales, especially online e-sales, feel they have the right to a larger budget.
Then there are the production teams that claim they are like the miserable “stepchildren” and feel left out.
I say, “Why can’t we all get along and help each other?“
As a result, I suggested we consider the John Lennon song “Give Peace a Chance” to collaborate more effectively.
Can we achieve peace at work?
Then, someone who rarely speaks up, a very quiet Chief of Staff, said, “Peace is an abstract thought; we need to find the route to harmony.”
Thus, we are now fighting about peace vs harmony. Unbelievable, huh?
Look, we are not talking about war; we are talking about consumer products.
It’s getting out of hand.
I would love to hear your thoughts regarding peace and harmony at work.
Signed,
Seeking Solidarity
Can we achieve peace or harmony at work?
Dear Seeking Solidarity
What a great thing to be arguing about at work.
Most importantly, it’s refreshing that you are discussing more significant concepts rather than talking about bullying bosses or the mean girls at work.
Hopefully, the discussion will lead to a better way of working together.
Let’s start with defining peace and harmony. I believe they are related, yet with many different aspects.
Then, I want to look at some organizations that have chosen peace, some that have decided on harmony, and some that have combined the two.
For instance, it would be great for you to have a team meeting to deepen the conversation. Please don’t let it go into the dumpster.
It’s worth the time to talk about working together more effectively. This is more effective than keeping the old silo way of working front and center.
Understanding Peace
Traditionally associated with the absence of conflict, peace is characterized by tranquility and minimal conflict. Advocates for peace often focus on resolving disputes, fostering understanding, and creating a world where individuals coexist without hostility.
Achieving peace requires addressing the root causes of conflict, promoting justice, and advocating for accountability over aggression.
Sustainability through Peace
- Conflict Resolution: Peaceful resolutions to conflicts contribute to long-term stability. By addressing the underlying issues causing disputes, we can create lasting solutions, fostering an environment where individuals can thrive.
- Social Justice: Peace is closely tied to social justice. Addressing inequality and promoting fair distribution of resources are critical elements in building a sustainable work setting where everyone has access to opportunities and a decent quality of life.
- Mediation: Choosing diplomacy and mediation minimizes the impact of conflicts. Peaceful negotiations promote stability, progress, and higher productivity.
Understanding Harmony
On the other hand, harmony goes beyond the absence of conflict. It implies a balance and integration of diverse elements, creating a cohesive and interconnected whole. Advocates for harmony often emphasize the importance of aligning oneself with the natural order, promoting holistic well-being.
Sustainability through Harmony
- Balanced Living: Harmony encourages individuals to live in balance with nature and their surroundings. This holistic approach fosters sustainable practices, recognizing the interconnectedness of human well-being.
- Cultural Diversity: Harmony celebrates diversity, recognizing the value of different perspectives and cultures. This inclusive approach is essential for creating a sustainable world where everyone is acknowledged and respected.
- Ecological Awareness: Living in harmony with nature involves understanding and respecting the environment. This leads to sustainable practices that protect ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural resources for future generations.
Peace and Harmony advocate for positive change.
The sustainable path to long-term well-being involves a combination of both. Peaceful resolutions to conflicts, social justice, and diplomatic approaches are crucial for stability.
Simultaneously, living in harmony with the environment and embracing cultural diversity fosters a holistic and sustainable lifestyle. Striking a balance between these concepts may hold the key to creating a world, including work, where individuals coexist peacefully, respecting each other and the planet.
Navigating Business Success: Striking a Balance Between Peace and Harmony
Every work culture’s pursuit of sustainable success often revolves around fostering positive environments. Some companies cultivate peace within their organizational structures, while others prioritize harmony.
However, few recognize the power of integrating both concepts to create a more robust and resilient organization. Here are companies that embody peace, harmony, and the synergistic combination of both for a better, more sustainable workplace.
Companies Striving for Peace
Google: Google is renowned for its commitment to creating a peaceful work environment. The company encourages open communication, provides spaces for employees to share ideas, and strongly emphasizes work-life balance. Google’s approach involves resolving conflicts through dialogue and fostering a collaborative culture that values diverse perspectives.
Salesforce: Salesforce is committed to social justice and equality, contributing to a peaceful workplace. The company advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, gender equality, and environmental sustainability. By addressing social issues, Salesforce aligns its corporate values with creating a more just and peaceful world within and outside the organization.
Organizations Embracing Harmony
Patagonia: Patagonia exemplifies a company that embraces harmony by aligning business practices with environmental stewardship. The outdoor clothing company creates sustainable products and actively participates in environmental initiatives. By integrating ecological responsibility into its core values, Patagonia promotes harmony with nature while maintaining a successful business model.
IKEA focuses on creating a harmonious workplace by valuing and celebrating cultural diversity. The company emphasizes inclusivity and promotes a sense of belonging among its employees. IKEA’s commitment to a harmonious work environment extends to its global supply chain, fostering collaboration and understanding among a diverse workforce.
Businesses Integrating Peace and Harmony
Unilever: Unilever is a prime example of a company that recognizes the power of combining peace and harmony. Multinational consumer goods companies actively work towards reducing their environmental impact while addressing social issues such as poverty and inequality. By integrating sustainability into its business model and fostering a socially responsible culture, Unilever aims to create positive change on a global scale.
Ben & Jerry’s: The ice cream giant, a subsidiary of Unilever, not only produces delicious treats but also operates with a commitment to social justice. Ben & Jerry’s stands out for its efforts to promote peace and harmony within its organization. The company engages in social and environmental activism, demonstrating that a business can thrive while actively contributing to positive change.
Companies prioritizing peace, harmony, or a thoughtful integration of both concepts set themselves on a path toward sustained success.
Whether resolving conflicts peacefully, embracing environmental harmony, or combining social responsibility with business practices, these companies showcase the transformative power of organizational values aligned with creating a better world.
Moreover, balancing peace and harmony is a critical strategy for companies aiming for financial success and a positive and lasting impact on society.
How one company talked through conflict to get to an integration of peace and harmony.
At an offsite, we facilitated, the marketing and sales teams were at loggerheads about who was to blame for a weak first quarter. They were each given time to discuss their most significant advantage and difficulty.
After each presentation, there was time for Q and A. Then, the teams took time for lunch. The sales team was in one room, marketing in the other, to go over what they learned from each other.
Eventually, someone in sales said, “Hey, I never heard them talk about the stress they feel. They are always talking like marketing has it all handled. They always come across as smarter than everyone else, kinda like the big shots of the world.”
After some creative conversations, sales decided to go for harmony. When the meeting continued after lunch, sales did what they did best: they sold an idea.
“We have some extra money in our budget and would like to give it to you for marketing. No strings attached. To help since we are all in this company together. And, please remember that the day may come when we will ask for the favor returned.”
Marketing was surprised and appreciative. The rest of the meeting was more open, friendly, and harmonious.
As one team member told me the following week. “We are getting along better. We even like each other more. Don’t know how that happened, yet it did.”
Telling the truth and asking for help can make all the difference in peace and harmony at work.
In conclusion, I hope this has been helpful for your specific organization. Whether it is a large corporation, a family business, a start-up, or a dream waiting to be realized, deciding the right culture fit for you is vital.
Let’s all communicate to create a more collaborative work environment.
To your success,
Sylvia Lafair
PS. Take the leadership quiz to see how you can contribute to a healthy work culture. My team and I are ready to help you find the best collaboration methods. Contact us now at www.ceoptions.com.
