‘Psychological safety’ in the workplace is one of the most relevant topics in the leadership space this year. But what does it mean, and why is it so important for company culture?

Firstly, let’s take a look at what psychological safety at work means.

According to Gallup, Harvard Business School professor Dr. Amy Edmondson defines the concept as:

“a climate in which people are comfortable being (and expressing) themselves.”

So, what does this mean for business leaders and the work environment for their teams?

Company culture and psychological safety at work

This is what a psychologically safe workplace looks like:

• High employee engagement
• Increased adaptability
• Higher team performance
• Great ideas and constant innovation

In other words, your people know they can voice their opinions, take risks, and experiment. They’re not scared about being judged for thinking out of the box.

Allowing your teams to have that 10X mindset will get you 10X success for your company.

Let me put it this way. Go back in time and remember how you became a leader.

Did it happen by keeping your mouth shut and playing it safe?

Or did you try new things, push your limits, and 10X your actions to get there?

I doubt it’s the first one. And let’s say it was. If you struggled with an old-fashioned manager, did it affect you as an employee — and the company? Did it motivate you to be better and do better once you’d be a leader yourself?

Think about it.

How to create a healthy, open, and safe company culture

If your employees don’t feel this sense of psychological safety at work, you’re doing something wrong.

Remember — success is your duty, and having motivated employees is a big part of your leadership success.

Here are a few things you can do to make this happen:

• Be transparent
• Encourage mutual feedback
• Promote growth
• Reward creative thinking and risk taking
• Frame mistakes as lessons
• Focus on building trust

Now, get out there, be great, and make it happen.

For more 10X leadership insights for business owners, join our Business Mastery Leadership Program.

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