Security

Creating an environment where people feel safe to be themselves, take risks, and innovate

In the 1990s, Shell Oil transformed its workplace culture on the Ursa deepwater platform project. By encouraging vulnerability and emotional openness among tough oil rig workers, they achieved an 84% decline in accidents and record-breaking productivity.

This story exemplifies the power of psychological safety in today's complex work environment. As we navigate remote work, diverse teams, and constant innovation, creating a space where employees feel safe to take risks, voice opinions, and be authentic is crucial.

Psychological safety isn't just about being nice—it's about fostering an atmosphere where honest feedback, creative ideas, and admission of mistakes drive success. In this resource section, we'll explore key concepts and practices to help leaders build psychologically safe environments, enabling teams to thrive amidst uncertainty and change.

Key Concepts

  • Self Regulation

    Move beyond "we'll sleep when we're dead!" culture. Focus on your whole nervous system to stay creative, calm, and resilient. Master responses to stress and social engagement within your window of tolerance.

    Getting Started: Learn the polyvagal theory inspired Window of Tolerance model. Regularly check in and shift from stress states to calm and connection.

    Read: Anchored: How to Befriend Your Nervous System Using Polyvagal Theory by Deb Dana

  • Combatting Toxicity

    Actively identify and address behaviors that undermine trust, collaboration, and psychological safety within your organization.

    Getting Started: Establish clear expectations and swift intervention protocols for toxic behavior. Lead by modeling empathy and understanding.

    Read:The No Asshole Rule: Building a Civilized Workplace and Surviving One That Isn't by Robert I. Sutton

    How to Fix a Toxic Culture by Daniel Sull and Charles Sull

  • Emotional Agility

    Description: Flexibly navigate thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to stay aligned with your core values and adapt to challenges.

    Getting Started: Practice "stepping out" techniques to observe your emotions objectively. Use the free How We Feel app to track your emotions throughout the day. Apply Tara Brach's RAIN practice to handle difficult situations.

    Read:3 Exercises to Improve Your Emotional Intelligence: According to Research by Emma Seppälä

  • Transparent Communication

    Description: Foster a culture of open and honest communication that builds trust and encourages dialogue at every level of the organization.

    Getting Started: Hold regular "ask me anything" sessions and implement transparent decision-making processes. When uncertainty arises, clearly communicate what you know, what you don’t know, and the expected timelines. Acknowledge and address challenges openly.

    Read: Simply Said: Communicating Better at Work and Beyond by Jay Sullivan

  • Recognizing Collective Trauma

    Description: Acknowledge the shared experiences of distress that impact teams or organizations, and create environments that support healing and growth.

    Getting Started: Develop trauma-informed leadership practices and provide resources for collective healing. Consider using Kristen Neff's mindful self-compassion techniques.

    Read:The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness, and Healing in a Toxic Culture by Gabor Maté

    Navigating Collective Trauma in the Workplace`by Rachael Lowell Ellison

Make it Real

This podcast episode and accompanying video explore the critical role of Security in today's evolving workplace. We discuss how leaders can foster psychological safety and inclusivity to drive innovation and engagement. Practical examples, actionable tips, and great resources for creating a more secure, productive, and fulfilling work environment.

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Sign up here for the 2024 pilot cohort on September 16, 2024.