Belonging: The Ancient Code of Togetherness
Around the year 2016, in my role with Netball Central Zone and The Central Pulse (ANZ Premiership Netball Franchise in New Zealand), we had the opportunity to host a facilitator who came into the organisation to deliver some insightful organisational culture workshops aimed at both the staff and the players. Her name was Bella Ansell, and she is undeniably one of the main reasons the proverbial light bulb went on for me in this crucial arena of effective culture. Throughout a number of engaging workshops, several valuable lessons were learned about the intricacies of culture, and some of these insights still resonate with me today. Following these initiatives, the organisation began to move on an upward trajectory, achieving notable success both on and off the court in ways we had not anticipated. During these impactful workshops, Bella and I engaged in many in-depth discussions about various stories related to culture, and the book "Belonging" by Owen Eastwood was mentioned and explored at length, further enriching our understanding.
"Belonging" by Owen Eastwood explores the profound impact of belonging on individual and organisational success. Drawing from his experiences as a leadership consultant and performance coach, Eastwood delves into the psychological and social aspects of belonging, emphasising its critical role in fostering a cohesive and high-performing culture within organisations. He argues that when individuals feel a sense of belonging, they are more engaged, motivated, and willing to contribute to the collective goals of the organisation.
The book outlines practical strategies for leaders to cultivate an inclusive environment where every member feels valued and connected. Eastwood highlights the importance of shared values, open communication, and mutual respect in building a strong organisational culture. He also discusses the challenges organisations face in creating a sense of belonging, particularly in diverse and remote work settings.
The book explores the concept of whakapapa, a Maori concept embodying our universal human need to belong. Eastwood, drawing on his own Maori ancestry, weaves together insights from human evolution and collective wisdom to highlight how this principle can maximize team performance in various high-performing settings, including sports, business, the arts, and the military. The book has been praised for its powerful lessons and beautiful expression of how a shared sense of identity and purpose can drive success1. It was even given to every England player at the European Championships as a motivational tool1.
The importance of "Belonging" for organisational culture lies in its ability to enhance collaboration, innovation, and overall employee well-being. By prioritising belonging, organisations can reduce turnover, increase productivity, and create a more resilient workforce. Eastwood's insights serve as a guide for leaders seeking to transform their organisations into places where everyone feels they truly belong, ultimately driving success and fulfillment for both individuals and the organisation as a whole.
Check out this interview with Owen Eastwood on The Leaders Questions podcast below: