While writing Being the Buddha Boss I realized that the economic crisis that began in October of 2008 really turned out to be a spiritual one. Our system is not flawed and corporations are not bad, rather the individuals who work within the system often times are.
I know business and spirituality appear to be different, spirituality points us to the meaning of life; business is about making money. But if you put them together spiritual capitalism-a growing and much needed development- can take an integrative approach by making the connection between your business, work and you.
Companies who are embracing this new paradigm shift are transforming the world of business. To these new mavericks, taking care of business means taking care of others. Not just because it is the right thing to do, but also because spiritual capitalism is a smart business move. Employees and managers who embrace spiritual values like respect and forgiveness are happier-and therefore more productive.
In the early 1980's the American capitalistic system was a perfect fit for my Christian upbringing and me. The religious ledger system of right and wrong and fit with the check and balances of the business world. After majoring in finance, I started my career in the multi-billion dollar industry of advertising. I was hired as an account executive in the growing advertising agency Sanders Wingo. After ten years, I became a partner and in the ten years that followed the agency was one of the first to recognize the changing realities of the multi-cultural consumer. We became leading experts in brand development for the Hispanic and Urban markets. The harder I worked on developing effective methods to seek out and find these specific consumers, the more I realized I needed to take a sabbatical to explore the world in hopes of finding myself.
After four years of trekking, hiking, and visiting most of the acupuncture points on the globe I came home and knew that as my belief system expanded so did my view of capitalism. I obtained my certification as a spiritual director, and began to research companies who organically embraced this new spiritual way of thinking. I found companies who didn't just write a check to a charity, rather those who made giving back a part of their non-negotiable core values. Theses businesses believe in the power of people to transform their communities and make a difference in the world. They understand that how they do business has a direct effect on the communities where they live and work. They are accountable for everything they do, from the way their products are produced, to the way the buildings where they work are designed, from service events to the quality of life in the global village we all share. They aspire to lead by example, and to add value to the lives that they touch. Their commitment to social responsibility is grounded in the values that define the communities where they live and work.
Firms today serve a broader audience than just shareholders, they serve stakeholders-a group that includes employees, clients and venders. The
introduction of spirituality in business goes one step further. It makes the connection between your company and you.
The world of business is being transformed through the introduction of spiritual capitalism. Let me assist you in embracing a leadership style that is part of your spiritual path. I will design a unique program to meet the needs of you and your business. Training will include but wont' be limited to:
- Individual and team values-based coaching
- Leadership values assessment
- Develop compelling reasons for change
- Assist in determining a service program that matches the company's core values.
- Introduce ways to reduce stress in the workplace.
- Develop strategies to incorporate the seven levels of leadership consciousness.
- Determine a spiritual practice that fits into your schedule.
- Instruction on the implementation road map.
- Learn how to become a full spectrum leader, the Buddha boss.
Twenty-five hundred years ago, the Buddha defined a mission statement for corporate America:
- Generosity is not optional.
- Everyone is responsible for himself or herself.
- We have a spiritual obligation to respond compassionately to those in need.
I invite you to be the Buddha boss at your business or organization and to open your mind to a different, but much needed way on how society can be structured and organizations can be led. By refocusing our intentions, capitalism can evolve into a system that incorporates human values without losing the benefits of free-market economy.
To arrange a private consultation, or for more information, please email me at
Michelle@michellecromer.com.
