14 Feb The Power of Meditation: Counteracting AI’s Impact on Worker Self-Worth and Boosting Well-Being in B Corps
As a B Corp Consultant and a dedicated meditation practitioner for over 12 years, I have experienced firsthand the profound benefits of this practice.
Meditation has provided me with clarity of mind, enhanced focus, and a sense of well-being, offering a much-needed respite from the chaos of balancing family, friends, health, managing a business, studying, and volunteering roles.
In today’s fast-paced world, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has brought about significant changes in the workplace. While AI can undoubtedly enhance efficiency and productivity, it has also contributed to a decline in workers’ self-worth. Many employees are left with the impression that “AI can do it better,” leading to feelings of inadequacy and diminished self-esteem.
Impact of AI on Workers’ Self-Worth
Research has shown that integrating AI in the workplace can have positive and negative effects on employees. On one hand, AI can enhance productivity and innovation by automating repetitive tasks and providing valuable insights. However, it can also lead to a sense of displacement and reduced worker self-worth.
A study by the World Economic Forum found that by 2025, automation and AI could displace 85 million jobs globally while also creating 97 million new roles. However, the transition can lead to significant anxiety and a sense of inadequacy among workers who feel their skills are becoming obsolete.
Research indicates that using AI for performance monitoring and management can lead to increased stress and decreased job satisfaction. A survey by the International Labour Organization revealed that 56% of workers felt that AI-driven performance evaluations were unfair and negatively impacted their self-worth.
Another study highlights that AI adoption in the workplace can affect employees’ personal and professional lives, leading to technological disruptions that redefine global labour markets. The increased awareness of smart technology and AI’s capabilities can amplify feelings of inadequacy and reduce creative self-efficacy among employees. A study published in the Journal of Business Research found that employees exposed to AI technologies reported a 20% decrease in creative self-efficacy. This decline was attributed to the perception that AI could outperform them in creative tasks, leading to feelings of inadequacy.
According to a report by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, 42% of workers in AI-integrated environments reported higher levels of stress and lower levels of job satisfaction compared to those in non-AI environments.
The antidote to this growing concern lies in the practice of meditation. By allowing the mind to slow down and create space for original thoughts and ideas, meditation can help individuals regain their sense of self-worth and creativity. It provides a sanctuary where the mind can rest and rejuvenate, fostering a healthier and more balanced approach to work and life.
B Corp Certification encourages workplace policies prioritising workers’ well-being, including providing spaces and programs promoting meditation and reflection. Companies that embrace these practices are more likely to value innovation and foster a culture where workers feel valued and cared for. This holistic approach not only enhances employee satisfaction but also drives business success.
Examples of Australian B Corps that Prioritise Meditation
- Thankyou Group: This social enterprise offers meditation sessions to its employees as part of its wellness initiatives. By prioritising employee well-being, Thankyou Group fosters a supportive and innovative work environment.
- Who Gives A Crap: This eco-friendly toilet paper company includes meditation and mindfulness practices in its employee wellness programs. Their commitment to employee well-being is reflected in their holistic approach to business.
- Future Super: This ethical superannuation fund provides meditation and mindfulness resources to support employee well-being. Future Super’s dedication to mindfulness helps create a healthy workplace culture.
In conclusion, meditation is a powerful tool to counteract the adverse effects of AI on workers’ self-worth. By incorporating meditation into workplace policies, B Corps like Thankyou Group, Who Gives A Crap, and Future Super demonstrate that caring for employees’ well-being is not only beneficial for individuals but also for the overall success of the business. As we navigate the evolving work landscape, let us remember the importance of creating spaces for mindfulness and reflection, ensuring every worker feels valued and empowered.
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REFERENCES:
Deranty, J.P., & Corbin, T. (2022). Artificial intelligence and work: A critical review of recent research from the social sciences. AI & Society.
World Economic Forum. (2020). The Future of Jobs Report 2020.
International Labour Organization. (2021). The impact of AI on work and workers.
Cramarenco, R. E., Burcă-Voicu, M. I., & Dabija, D. C. (2023). The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on employees’ skills and well-being in global labour markets: A systematic review. Oeconomia Copernicana.
Jeong, J., & Jeong, I. (2024). Driving creativity in the AI-enhanced workplace: Roles of self-efficacy and transformational leadership. Current Psychology.
European Agency for Safety and Health at Work. (2022). The impact of AI on workplace stress and job satisfaction.
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