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Photo by Shaun Menary

In what is being called a global movement, a growing community of like-minded organizations are using business as a force for good. Globally, there are now 1700 B-Corporations who are using the power of business to solve social and environmental problems. Concepts like Conscious Capitalism and the Sharing Economy are flourishing, as are conferences on Purpose and The Future of Work.

At the heart of this movement is a simple question; what does it really mean to be successful in business—and in life?

And their simple answer is: to be a pulse of hope—on purpose.

At its heart, this inspirational business community is indicative of a new mindset emerging around the world in numerous fields including education and sustainability. Rather than being driven by individual gain, this community is finding there is real value, in being of value—to themselves, to others, to nature and to the future. It is a purpose-driven mindset that is redefining success; from being the best in the world, to being the best for the world. It is the Benefit Mindset.

The Benefit Mindset

“Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value” – Albert Einstein

Having recently completed the Master of Applied Positive Psychology at the University of Melbourne, I studied this emerging mindset.

The Benefit Mindset describes society’s everyday leaders who look beyond growth, to promote well being on both an individual and a collective level.

The Benefit Mindset builds on Carol Dweck’s pioneering research, on how beliefs about the nature of intelligence can profoundly shape the lives we lead and the actions we take. This framework takes her Fixed and Growth Mindset to the next level—towards a richer definition of success.

What sets everyday leaders apart from their everyday achieving counterparts is how they aspire to discover their strengths, in order to meaningfully contribute to causes that are greater than the self. They question ‘why’ they do what they do, and believe in making a meaningful difference.

This new psychology is not only showing up in business. It’s particularly evident in the Positive Education movement–schooling that looks beyond academic success to promote whole person flourishing. It can also be seen in new concepts, such as Net Positive, that are redefining success in sustainability, from minimizing negative footprints to maximising positive handprints.

Being a Pulse of Hope
Developing everyday leaders could be one of the best points of leverage we have for liberating human potential—and simultaneously bringing out the best in business and the planet.

Imagine what would be possible if businesses wholeheartedly embraced this mindset? Imagine the ripples of change that would be possible with whole generations living their lives with purpose. Imagine a world where individualism and collectivism flourishes together.

Just imagine!

FROM THE EDITOR
At Conscious, we are inspired by stories that cause us to think differently and think big-picture and so we set out to tell stories with the help of leaders and influencers within the social good community. You can read more stories like this when you join as a member.