Empowering Organizations Through Resilience

The Israeli workplace landscape has been rocked since October 7^th last year by a surge in burnout, stress, and anxiety .

A survey conducted by the Israeli Institute of Safety and Hygiene following October 7^th . terror attack revealed that close to 40% of Israeli employees report a high level of burnout- a jump of 56% compared to the level that existed before October 7^th

43% of employees report that they suffer from stress and anxiety – an increase of 80% compared to the level before October 7^th

And more than 40% report of pains that limit their activity- a staggering 115% increase compared to the level before October 7^{th .} This alarming trend underscores the critical importance of investing in resilience in today’s professional organizations and companies.

This crisis is part of a global trend called The Age of Permacrisis, marked by prolonged instability stemming from various crises. This has placed unprecedented strain on individuals and organizations globally. From the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic to wars, climate change and economic uncertainties, employees are navigating through a complex web of stressors that challenge their well-being and productivity.

Recent findings from the Gallup Research Institute have shed light on the dire state of the global workforce. Shockingly, 76% of employees worldwide experience burnout at some point, with 28% facing it very frequently. Additionally, 18% report feeling miserable, while a staggering 60% feel emotionally detached from their workplace.

Further research, including studies by McKinsey, corroborates the pivotal role of resilience in fostering employee well-being and organizational success. Companies that invest in their employees’ well-being and resilience witness significant improvements in productivity, sales, and overall performance.

So, what exactly is resilience?

It’s the ability to successfully adapt to stressors, and maintaining psychological well being in face of adversity. It’s the ability to bounce back from crisis.

Contrary to common belief, resilience can be nurtured and developed through deliberate effort and training. Central to resilience is the adoption of a challenge mindset. Employees with this mindset remain unfazed by the highs and lows of reality, acknowledging the difficulties they face while remaining determined to overcome them. This mindset allows individuals to focus on what they can control and navigate through adversity with resilience.

Epictetus the Stoic philosopher defined the essence of resilience “It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.

Moreover, fostering a culture of resilience within the organization is paramount. Management must create an environment of psychological safety, where employees feel comfortable expressing opinions and making mistakes without fear of repercussion. By reinforcing positive behaviors and beliefs, organizations can cultivate resilience among their workforces.

Implementing well-being programs that address the holistic needs of employees is another crucial step. These programs should offer mental health support, stress management techniques, and resources for building resilience. By equipping employees with the tools to cope with stress and adversity, organizations pave the way for a healthier, more resilient workforce.

Recently, ISO –  the International Organization for Standardization has issued a new standard in the workforce for managing sociopsychological risks- numbered 45003 . It is a global standard which provides for the first time employers with a framework for managing psychological health and safety. This in turn helps to improve organizational resilience and enhance performance and productivity.

Leaders must play a pivotal role in promoting resilience within the workplace by fostering open communication, providing support, and leading by example, They should set the tone for a resilient organizational culture.

In conclusion, the Age of Permacrisis presents unprecedented challenges for both employees and organizations. Companies can no longer ignore the need to invest in their employee’s resilience and wellbeing. There is a significant cost associated with lack of wellbeing and it is the loss in employee productivity as a result of: absenteeism, presenteeism, low morale, declining engagement, motivation and creativity and finally resulting in high turnover.

McKinsey recently reported that employees with low wellbeing and mental health problems are four times more likely to leave their company.

However, by prioritizing resilience and investing in employee well-being, organizations can navigate through turbulent times and emerge stronger than ever before. Through resilience, they can drive productivity, innovation, and long-term success in an era defined by perpetual crisis.

In a period defined by perpetual crisis, investing in resilience isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity. By prioritizing the well-being and resilience of employees, organizations can weather the storm of uncertainty and crises and emerge stronger than ever before.

Martin Luther King J. said “”If you can’t fly then run , if you can’t run then walk,  if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward” this is the essence of resilience based mind set

As we navigate through turbulent times, let us remember that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back—it’s about bouncing forward, thriving in the face of adversity, and shaping a brighter future for all.