Driving Creativity with Mindfulness Training at the AMA
People often ask how a mindfulness program really works in organizations. We’re delighted to share the details of our partnership with the American Marketing Association as an example of what’s possible.
Overview/Challenge
Between internal changes and pandemic fatigue, stress was at a palpable high and putting pressure on the creative thinking required across the organization for weathering challenges and inspiring growth. The AMA sought to build individual skills in mindfulness in the interest of employees’ well-being and creative capabilities. Delivering a guided and shared experience underscored the AMA’s goal of creating a common language and skillset toward creativity and innovation.
Approach
Kairos designed a company-wide virtual training in mindful self-management skills, with customized content to reflect the AMA’s current challenges. Each session progressed participants on a path to creative thinking with training to access focused, clear and inspired thinking. This laddered approach helped increase morale as they honed their mindfulness skills.
The month-long training included weekly live sessions, supported by guided meditations and study guides of techniques. The AMA supported learning between sessions with a daily shared experience in cultivating helpful mindful habits. Their internal practice continued twice weekly after the formal live program with Kairos concluded.
Results
AMA Leadership and the associates that took part in the program reported demonstrable improvements in the areas of unlocking creativity in the face of challenging times.
85% found mindfulness to be useful in aiding their personal & professional development
90% felt better equipped to think clearly through challenge
95% felt they had the resources to think creatively
85% felt better able to manage their stress reaction
Testimonials
“The mindfulness program that Ariadne ran for the AMA was a cultural asset and well worth it. Ariadne conducted the program in the fall of 2020, in the depths of the pandemic and shortly after the AMA had gone through a strategic restructuring. The focus on mindfulness during this difficult time was key to breathing new life into our organization. People still talk about it. Ariadne did an amazing job conducting the program entirely virtually without losing any of the impact.”
“I really enjoyed and appreciated every session, and found them really useful for both work and personal use.”
Conclusion
The results are real. Mindfulness can be a powerful elixir for the challenges facing burned out employees and stressed organizations in need of a creative breakthrough.
