By: Kellie McDermott
Psychological safety, coined by Harvard Business School professor Amy Edmondson in 1999, is the absence of interpersonal fear. It allows individuals to perform their best across various life domains, including home, school, and work. Feeling psychologically safe means being able to take interpersonal risks, speak up, disagree openly, and surface concerns without fearing negative repercussions. It nurtures an environment where creative ideas can be shared without fear of judgment, fostering innovation, and creating a stronger, more inclusive community.
Understanding and prioritizing psychological safety remains a challenge for many project leaders, often due to its intangible nature. Yet, its impact on employee well-being and organizational success cannot be overstated. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of psychological safety, its stages of development, and practical strategies for project managers to cultivate it within their projects.
Creating a Safe Haven
1 - Inclusion
Acknowledging our fundamental need for connection, this stage encourages individuals to be their authentic selves, fostering a sense of belonging not just within the team but also within the organization.
2 - Learner
As curiosity peaks, employees deepen their understanding, soliciting feedback, questioning, and embracing learning from mistakes.
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