Photograph by Rachel Papo
The word “soul” is being used more frequently and it’s easy to see why. We are all seeking a better quality lifestyle and a better way of conducting life and business – perhaps blurring the separation between the two.
Soul is consciousness and there are two kinds of stages that exist within each of us, one that is original, “soul-awareness,” and the other that is learned, “body-awareness,” which is a more limited interpretation of ourselves.
When we are being true, the quality of expression that emanates from this place is kind, pure, peaceful, wise, and generous. In body awareness, we think from a position of what is in it for me, giving rise to ego, attachment, and greed. These forces begin to play a dominant role in the results we witness from our choices.
Imagine a corporate workplace as a collection of individuals who conduct business from the consciousness of their souls. I believe when we talk about the “soul” of business, we are referring to the qualities or virtues we bring into our work, style, ethics, and means of producing. This is from the very same space in which I show up within myself. Qualities such as respect, trust, appreciation, truth, and humility will arise from a soul who is walking in truth. Contrary to that, limitations of the ego, attachment, unhealthy competition, and fear arise from body-awareness – the mentality of what’s in it for me? Since little can be created or sustained from a place of body-awareness, many corporations and governments are now struggling to stay afloat because this mentality has taken root as the normal state of affairs. Disassociation from soul-awareness is a dead-end street.
Instead of the common reaction to a problem of looking outside of ourselves and blaming others, perhaps a new soul-business model would have us look inward first, and honestly reflect upon our contribution to the whole.
Sister Jenna speaks with Korean War veterans at the 7th annual Armistice Day Commemoration & Peace Vigil in Washington, D.C.
When we check in with ourselves, we can objectively observe if we are part of the problem or part of the solution. It is through awareness that we authentically relate to ourselves and others.
Currently, we are witnessing an expansion of meditation, yoga, and mindfulness in the workplace, which is signaling us to fix something at a deeper level than merely having a high-level consultant offering strategic business advice. The fix we are in need of is more on a soul level. Celebrities like Oprah Winfrey and Arianna Huffington, the staff at Google, and those from all genres of business are bringing more soul-awareness into their workplaces. There is a need for the soul to feel safe, clear, creative, and courageous in the spaces in which people are expected to produce effective results. Some of the most successful inventors and leaders have failed many times until a moment of stillness met a moment of wisdom.
Sister Jenna with Sister Gita, conducting a self-esteem workshop for high-risk girls in Belize
It is quite simple. If a corporation, workplace, or family cannot find their joy or calling within their fortress of work or home, then the soul needs attention. It is never where you are that matters the most; it is the state of consciousness that you are in that makes the difference. When we bring soul-awareness to business, it is with the best intent to bring qualities and virtues to a space where all thrive and flourish. When I the soul rise, you rise is the soul’s way of doing business.
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