Creating Psychological Safety

“Combining strengths and wellbeing at work is potentially the most transformational treatment yet in the urgent pursuit of resiliency, mental health and ultimately, net thriving.” - Jim Clifton & Jim Harter, Wellbeing at Work

During Current Times of Change and Challenge

In today’s fast-paced world, change is not just a constant; it's often disruptive and challenging. Whether it's navigating through economic shifts, adapting to new technologies, or overcoming a global pandemic, the pressures we face can weigh heavily on our minds and spirits. But in the midst of this chaos, one fundamental element stands out as a beacon of hope: psychological safety.

So, what exactly is it? Psychological safety—a term coined by Dr. Amy

Edmondson—refers to an environment where individuals feel free to express their thoughts, questions, concerns, and mistakes without fear of judgment or repercussions.

Here are some warm, heartfelt ways to cultivate this invaluable sense of safety in our teams and communities:

Encourage Open Dialogue

Start by fostering an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable voicing their thoughts. Invite team members to share their perspectives during meetings, and actively listen. Validate their feelings and experiences. Remember, it’s not just about talking; it’s about creating space for genuine conversations.

Normalize Vulnerability

Let’s be real—no one has all the answers, and that’s perfectly okay! Share your own

experiences, including challenges and failures. When leaders show vulnerability, it encourages others to drop their guard and opens the door for authentic connections. It’s a reminder that we’re all in this together.

Celebrate Mistakes as Learning Opportunities

Mistakes happen, and that’s part of the journey! Shift the focus from blame to learning by

discussing what went wrong and how to improve moving forward. This helps build resilience and encourages innovation. After all, some of the best ideas come from trial and error!

Lead with Empathy

We’re living in challenging times, and everyone is dealing with their own struggles.

Understanding and empathizing with each other can create deeper bonds within our teams. Take time to listen actively, and ask how you can help. Sometimes, just being there for someone can make all the difference.

Fostering psychological safety in a team or organization is crucial for encouraging open

communication, creativity, and collaboration. Here are three strategies to promote psychological safety, along with citations: Investing in happiness is investing in the future success of your organization. After all, when employees thrive, businesses flourish!

Citation -Sources:

Edmondson, A. C. (1999). "Psychological Safety and Learning Behavior in Work Teams."
*Administrative Science Quarterly*
Brown, B. (2012). *Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way
We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead*. Avery.
Stone, D., Patton, B., & Heen, S. (2010). *Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most*. Penguin Books.

-The Topia Team

Elevating Health, Happiness and Performance

Incorporating digital wellness platforms into the workplace is not just about keeping employees healthy—it’s about fostering a culture that prioritizes well-being and performance.

Topia, offers businesses a unique opportunity to elevate their workplace culture, reduce stress, and improve productivity through our hybrid wellness solutions. Invest in your employees' well-being and transform your workplace today!

Schedule your Topia Listening Circle or

Wellness Workshop today here!