Our Understanding of
Mindfulness
We use a highly practicable concept of mindfulness, free from esoteric or spiritual connotations. Following the approach of Jon Kabat-Zinn, we understand mindfulness as an attitude of kindness and openness, being present and aware in the current moment (Kabat-Zinn, 2013).
The 6 Evidence-Based Effects of Mindfulness
Mindfulness is much more than just a relaxation technique. Practicing mindfulness offers numerous scientifically documented benefits. Based on a broad body of research, including meta-analyses and publications according to the gold standard of research, a total of 6 areas of evidence for mindfulness are defined.
Focus and Concentration
Immune System
Wellbeing
Coping Anger and Stress
Memory Function
Social Connection
Economic Benefits for Businesses
Sometimes, the evidence supporting mindfulness interventions can seem abstract. The OECD has recognized mindfulness as a "future skill" since 2018. Although many companies are still not fully aware of how critical the MOMENTUM themes are for organizational success and growth.
Companies that offer mindfulness increase sales by 11% on average. The quality of programs has a direct impact on return on investment (Willis Towers Watson 2019).
Another study found that mindfulness interventions in organizations lead to fewer cases of burnout, they estimate the cost saved to be around $22,000 per employee (Aikens et al., 2014).
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A study by the University of Wisconsin reported 76% fewer sick days for employees who actively practiced mindfulness (Barret et al., 2012).
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Another study examined the relationship between mindfulness programs and company loyalty: the higher the level of mindfulness, the greater the commitment to the current employer (Dane & Brummel, 2014).
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An Oxford study in cooperation with Headspace, Google and Roche reports 46% fewer depressive symptoms and increased well-being through daily mindfulness practice (Bostock et al., 2019).
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Not Being Present in the Moment, Sharpen Your Focus:
The Path to Inner Strength
Researchers from Harvard University found in a study published in Science Magazine that, on average, people spend 47% of their waking time not present in the current moment, which significantly impacts their sense of happiness.
In a study conducted by the consulting firm Bain & Company, more than 2,000 employees were asked which attributes they found most inspiring in leaders. By far the most frequently mentioned trait was “centeredness” (Garton, 2017). “Centeredness” describes being fully present in the here and now – the core element of mindfulness (Hehn & Rauls, 2023).
Confident Leadership in Uncertain Times
Today’s leaders face a BANI world – brittle, anxious, non-linear, and incomprehensible – a complex, uncertain, and fragmented work environment. In this world, their scope of responsibilities and expectations keeps growing, while the time available to them seems to shrink continuously. Many leaders see the most obvious response in going “even faster, even more efficient.”
However, this mode is neither sustainable nor healthy, and it is one of the reasons why mental health-related sick leave is on the rise in organizations.
There are, however, far more meaningful alternatives – such as the concept of mindful leadership. A key element of mindful leadership is not only what a person says or does, but also what they embody.
The inner attitude plays a crucial role. MOMENTUM starts exactly here – promoting the cultivation of a mindful leadership culture through its structure and approach.
Killingworth & Gilbert (2010): „A wandering mind is an unhappy mind“. Science Magazine.
Mindful Leadership
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Get in Touch
Mari Möller
MOMENTUM Business Development Specialist & your personal contact mari.moeller@returnonmeaning.com
+49 174 1811 116