In recent decades, workplace culture
has not received the attention that
it deserves. At Saint Francis Medical
Center, as is the case at most American
workplaces, the culture is more of
a synthesis of management goals and
employee needs or desires. If funded
by a company, the pursuit of a happy
workplace culture cannot be devoid of
the company’s interests. On the other
hand, the pursuit of happiness is a basic
human desire. Therefore it is a pursuit
that benefits all.
Clearly, the happiness program
instituted at Saint Francis Medical
Center is very attractive and deserves
replication. There are a few words of
caution for those who wish to try it.
From the very start, Elliott and management
at the hospital believed there
would be economic benefits in creating
a positive work environment;
however, the profit motive was very
strongly coupled with a sincere desire
to help employees seek personal happiness
and to improve each of their lives.
Moreover, trust is likely a prerequisite
to success. At this hospital, it was
apparent that trust flowed from top to
bottom.
It is just possible that this hospital in
the middle of the U.S. might show the
way to dramatically change the way
we think about the world of work. Just
maybe, sociologists in the future will
teach about how work is wholesome
and enriching. Just maybe, each of us
could find that work is not some drudgery
that we have to endure in order to
afford to live, but a source of joy.