Purpose is a protective factor for mental health and well-being in the workplace

Purpose is a protective factor for mental health and well-being in the workplace

People who understand and connect with their purpose within an organization are three times more likely to feel fulfilled. In this context, as part of the HR Network’s Wellness Conference, Almabrands presented its RIC model, which encompasses three key dimensions designed to foster fulfillment, empowerment, and well-being for people in the workplace.

At the HR Network’s Wellness Conference, the consulting firm Almabrands highlighted the importance of personal purpose as a key tool for addressing the mental health crisis in the workplace.

In front of hundreds of attendees, Cristina Villavicencio, a partner at Almabrands, and Cristián Irarrázaval, Manager of Training and Cultural Transformation, noted that people who understand and connect with their purpose within an organization are three times more likely to feel fulfilled.

This is taking place against the backdrop of a complex mental health crisis: according to the WHO, 15% of the workforce reports symptoms of stress, and nearly half of the younger generations have experienced burnout at work.

Cristina Villavicencio also added that the idea that work and personal life can be separated is a myth, and that, according to studies conducted by Aaron Hurst, Purpose Economist at Almabrands, only 1% of people who say they feel fulfilled in their personal lives do not feel the same way about their work. “This confirms that personal and work satisfaction are intertwined, and that feeling fulfilled at work is essential to achieving overall well-being,” she explains.

To bring about change, the key is to work with a sense of personal purpose, they point out. It requires a purpose-driven mindset—that is, approaching work from a perspective where employees come to find meaning and take ownership of their work, rather than simply working in exchange for a salary or according to what the job description says. This leads to better results, more engaged teams, a more resilient culture, and higher retention rates.

RIC Model: Relationships, Impact, and Growth

To help organizations connect with their purpose, Cristián Irarrázaval presented Almabrands’ RIC model, which focuses on three key dimensions:

1. Meaningful relationships: The ability to form close and honest bonds is essential for fostering a healthy work environment. “If we don’t have trusting relationships in our workplace, it’s hard for people to feel fulfilled and committed,” he points out.

2. Impact: Feeling that one’s work has a positive impact on others and that one’s role within the organization is meaningful is crucial to motivation. Employees need to know that their work has a broader impact and that what they do has value beyond the individual.

3. Growth and development: This involves feeling that I am in a place and environment where I can grow as a person and as a professional. Opportunities for growth are not limited to moving up the organizational hierarchy; often, they come through new responsibilities or the chance to acquire new knowledge.

At Almabrands, a leading consulting firm specializing in organizational transformation in Latin America, it is emphasized that workplace well-being not only improves employees’ quality of life but also has a direct impact on companies’ productivity and sustainability.

With this model, Almabrands aims to help organizations view purpose not just as a trend, but as a standard that enables them to develop individuals, teams, and leaders through a more human-centered approach aligned with their values.

“Focusing on relationships, impact, and growth is essential for people to feel fulfilled and part of something greater than themselves. This is the true path to well-being and mental health in the workplace,” concludes Irarrázaval.