To thrive is to grow or develop in a robust and energetic manner. Thriving includes the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual dimensions of life.
Thriving originates from the Old Norse word þrifask, to "grasp to oneself." Essentially, when we thrive, we get a hold of ourselves, rather than lose ourselves.
Thrive! synthesizes the newest brain research as well as developments in psychological, leadership, and organizational theory. The Thrive! approach integrates mind, body and emotions, using proven methods for adult learning. Underlying this approach is the belief that people, teams, and organizations thrive when individuals are self-aware, skillful at communicating self-responsibly, conscious and accountable regarding choices, and living courageously while pursuing meaningful goals.
Individuals
As individuals, we thrive when our actions align with our core values and positive vision of ourselves—when we have a clear vision of where we want to go, who we want to be, and are working actively towards realizing it. In fact, research shows that when we are working towards our vision, we feel optimistic, grateful, abundant, spacious, joyful, and creative. In this thriving state, challenges excite us, leading us towards a deeper sense of meaning and an expanded view of ourselves. As the old Japanese saying goes, "vision without action is a daydream. Action without vision is a nightmare."
Relationships
Relationships and teams thrive when the individuals involved work collaboratively towards a shared vision, have a clear, effective methodology for decision-making and are skillful at conflict resolution. People in relationships thrive when they consider the others to be significant, competent, and likable, and perceive that they are viewed in kind. This helps create an atmosphere in which people feel inspired, motivated, appreciated, valued, connected and satisfied, which leads to higher productivity and success.
Organizations
Organizations thrive when the organization's vision aligns with their actual practices, the company's values are realized on a daily basis, and systems and processes are put in place that support teams and individuals in achieving their objectives. By recognizing that people are their most important resource, organizations create a climate in which individuals bring their discretionary energy, are fully engaged, and feel inspired to go beyond the call of duty. Excellence and high productivity are the norm in a thriving organization. Life balance, fun and aliveness typify these great organizations.
Leaders
Organizations, teams, relationships and individuals thrive when leaders recognize the value of each employee, have a clear vision, the competence to realize the vision, and are able to inspire people to follow them joyfully and willingly. These leaders are people of integrity who understand the importance of supporting individuals to behave in a manner consistent with their own visions and values. They help create a workplace in which people feel significant, competent and likable. They bring out the best in people by capitalizing on strengths, rewarding excellence, and "catching people doing something right." They are life-long learners, committed to self-awareness, resilient, flexible and willing to change. They model openness and are willing to admit mistakes.
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