The level of consciousness
A new economic model does not work on the basis of predefined rules, but only through a change in consciousness. In our world and in our economic world, we find a consciousness that is still far too often based on separation and opposition. This does not do justice to our true nature.
Like all beings, humans are part of the whole that we call the ‘universe’ and, viewed purely from the outside, are limited by space and time. They experience themselves, their thoughts and feelings as something that separates them from others, but this is a kind of optical illusion of consciousness.
From a letter of Albert Einstein
Quelle: Günther Hilgartner – Zwischen Glaube und Wissenschaft – Ein Laie findet die Mitte
We as humans are social beings. We live our true nature when our lives are determined not by the awareness of “separation from others” but by the awareness of “unity of all things.” Only when we become aware of our unity with each other and with nature, and actively live this awareness, will we as humanity reach the next level.
Das Warum – der Sinn
A company needs a purpose. A purpose that satisfies important customer needs. A purpose that serves the common good and our planet. A purpose that gives employees who work for the company a sense of identification. A purpose that, ideally, inspires everyone involved—entrepreneurs, employees, customers, suppliers, and decision-makers in politics.
“People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it. And what you do only proves what you believe.“
Simon Sinek
Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action
Values
A company needs strong values. Values such as responsibility, reliability, trust, and transparency. Yes, even values such as charity, selflessness, and gratitude. For these values to unfold their power, they must be binding for management and employees alike. Monetary considerations must not lead to the abandonment of values.
Companies based on decentralized structures—as living organisms
We should set up companies as living organisms with decentralized decision-making structures. This requires increased awareness among employees and a strong sense of purpose. Employees must see themselves as co-entrepreneurs who take responsibility for the whole.
I was aware that decisions had to be made by the employees themselves in order to become a responsive company, directly in production. I believe that a good employee is one who takes initiative.
Jean François Zobrist, CEO Favi
Positive Thinking
We need to think positively in everything we do.
Of course, we must not gloss over obvious problems or turn a blind eye to them. But we need to move away from focusing on problems and toward focusing on potential. We also need courage and tolerance for mistakes.
The prophecy of the event leads to the event of the prophecy.
Paul Watzlawick
Anleitung zum Unglücklichsein
While all of this is desirable, is it still a utopian dream? For me, the question is not whether such a model will emerge, but rather how quickly it will arrive.
When I attended national and international business events several years ago, and when I do so today, I clearly sense that a shift in awareness has taken place at many existing companies and that a young generation of entrepreneurs has entered the playing field, playing by different rules.
Read my blog: “Das lebende Unternehmen” on Linkedin (in German).