Culture eats strategy for breakfast and why psychological safety is key

---

By: Heather Suttie

Creating Psychological Safety: Building stronger workplaces for thriving individuals

In the modern workplace, success goes beyond mere financial gains. It’s about fostering an environment where employees can thrive, innovate, and reach their full potential. One key element that paves the way for such a workplace is psychological safety.

This concept, often overlooked but crucial, can transform organisations and propel them towards greater heights.
Let’s explore what psychological safety is, why it’s important, and why workplaces should invest in cultivating it.
 

Investing in Psychological Safety by Angela Prentner-Smith, founder and MD of This is Milk shares insights into how to develop psychological safety

What is Psychological Safety?
Angela Prentner-Smith said:


“Psychological safety refers to an environment where individuals feel safe to express themselves without fear of negative consequences. It’s a climate where employees feel comfortable sharing ideas, taking risks, and being vulnerable, knowing that they won’t face ridicule, judgment, or retribution. It’s a space that encourages open communication, collaboration, and learning from failures. In essence, psychological safety creates a sense of trust, respect, and inclusivity within an organisation.”

Why is Psychological Safety important?
In an environment of psychological safety, employees are more likely to voice their opinions, offer constructive feedback, and engage in open dialogue.
They feel empowered to express their ideas, knowing they won’t be shut down or dismissed.

This level of communication fosters innovation, creativity, and problem-solving, as diverse perspectives and ideas are shared freely.
Psychological safety emboldens individuals to step outside their comfort zones and take calculated risks.

When employees feel safe to make mistakes and learn from them, they become more willing to explore new possibilities, experiment with innovative approaches, and grow both personally and professionally.
This fuels a culture of continuous learning and development.
Teams thrive in an environment where every member feels valued and respected.

Psychological safety creates a sense of belonging and inclusivity, enabling individuals to collaborate effectively. When team members trust one another and feel safe sharing their thoughts and concerns, they can build stronger relationships, solve problems together, and achieve collective goals.
When employees feel psychologically safe, they are more engaged, motivated, and committed to their work. They experience a sense of purpose and connection to the organisation.

This, in turn, leads to higher job satisfaction, reduced turnover rates, and increased productivity. Employees who feel safe and supported are more likely to invest their time and effort into the organisation’s success.


Reduces Stress and Burnout
A lack of psychological safety can contribute to high levels of stress and burnout. When individuals fear retribution or judgment, they may hesitate to seek help, admit their struggles, or ask for support which impacts mental health.

On the other hand, a psychologically safe workplace encourages open discussions about mental health, promotes work-life balance, and provides the necessary support systems. This reduces stress levels, enhances well-being, and prevents burnout.


Foster Trust and Empathy
Leaders play a crucial role in building psychological safety within their teams and organisational structures.

They must create a culture of trust, where employees feel comfortable approaching them, sharing their concerns, and seeking guidance.

Leaders should also demonstrate empathy, actively listen to their employees, and value their perspectives. This fosters a supportive environment where everyone’s voice is heard and respected.


Lead by Example
Leaders need to model the behaviour they expect from their teams. By displaying vulnerability, admitting mistakes, and embracing a growth mindset, leaders encourage others to do the same.

When employees see their leaders acknowledging and learning from failures, they feel safe to take risks and innovate without fear of consequences.


Encourage Psychological Safety Practices
Companies should actively promote psychological safety through various practices. This can include regular team-building exercises, feedback sessions, and open forums where ideas and concerns are discussed.

Encourage managers to create safe spaces for employees to voice their thoughts and provide opportunities for professional development and growth.


Embrace Diversity and Inclusion
A diverse and inclusive workforce is a catalyst for psychological safety. Embrace diversity in all its forms, including race, gender, ethnicity, age, and backgrounds.

Create a culture where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their differences. Actively seek out diverse perspectives and ensure equitable opportunities for all employees.
​

Provide Learning and Development Opportunities
Investing in learning and development programs demonstrates a commitment to employee growth and cultivates psychological safety. Offer training on effective communication, emotional intelligence, and conflict resolution to equip employees with the skills they need to thrive in a psychologically safe environment.

By investing in psychological safety, businesses can create workplaces that inspire creativity, collaboration, and growth.

It’s an investment in the well-being and success of employees, leading to increased productivity, innovation, and ultimately, organisational success.

As the renowned management guru Peter Drucker once said, “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.”

Cultivating psychological safety isn’t just a strategy; it’s a transformative cultural shift that empowers individuals to bring their whole selves to work and create extraordinary outcomes
.
Find out more on the Psychological Safety Indexing service from This is Milk, click here.

Read the original article on London Daily: Culture eats strategy for breakfast and why psychological safety is key | London Daily News