The Performance Imperative

Why we must address performance issues before promoting positivity

With the growing popularity of positive psychology and an ever-increasing amount of research demonstrating the value of building thriving workplaces, many organizations are taking the plunge to engineer the kind of virtuous organizations employees and managers dream about. However, when managers and executives begin to think about implementing initiatives to build a more positive organization they confront a dilemma: “How do I begin the process of creating a thriving organization?” “Do I start with employees?” “Do I start with managers?” “Do I start with examining the processes and procedures that may be interfering with my workforce’s ability to engage itself?”

Some people will start promoting positivity by working with employees, perhaps implementing training on effective communication to build more effective relationships among staff. Some will start by focusing on