Mindfulness in organizations (part 1): a critical literature review

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the growing science and application of mindfulness as an intervention within organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

This is the first in a pair of papers exploring the science and application of mindfulness in organizations. The first section of the paper provides a brief review of the research into mindfulness and its perceived benefits from a health perspective. In the second section, the author considers the neurobiological mechanisms behind mindfulness meditation, before finally considering the organizational research and the limitations of mindfulness at work research.

Findings

The paper notes that while there has been considerable research into health outcomes, organizational mindfulness research is still developing a comprehensive case for the wide-scale application of mindfulness.

Research limitations/implications

The paper calls for greater research into organizational mindfulness interventions through collaborations between organizations and consultants.

Practical implications

The paper calls for organizations to adopt an evidence-led approach to using mindfulness and evaluate its impact on employees and organizational performance.

Originality/value

The paper provides a starting point for trainers and organizational development professionals to take stock and consider how mindfulness can be employed as a tool for the benefit of organizations.

Citation

Passmore, J. (2019), "Mindfulness in organizations (part 1): a critical literature review", Industrial and Commercial Training, Vol. 51 No. 2, pp. 104-113. https://doi.org/10.1108/ICT-07-2018-0063