From Surviving to Thriving: How to Cultivate a Positive Workplace Climate

Consider the feeling of walking into a room where everyone’s energy is low, conversations are clipped, and ideas are met with silence - how does this make you feel? Now, picture walking into a room buzzing with collaboration, optimism, and creativity.

The difference is the workplace climate - the invisible force shaping how people feel, interact, and perform.

A positive workplace climate doesn’t just happen, it needs to be cultivated. Leaders set the tone, and their choices can mean the difference between a team existing in survival mode and one thriving with possibility.

Why Workplace Climate Matters

Workplace climate is not about superficial positivity or “good vibes only” signs in the breakroom. It is about creating an environment where people feel safe, valued, and connected. When this is present, teams are more engaged, resilient, and productive.

When people feel safe and supported, their brains release oxytocin, promoting trust and collaboration. But in toxic environments, chronic stress triggers cortisol production, which hinders creativity and decision-making.

It is also about creating a workplace where self care and well being is prioritised; people can flourish and the long term sustainability of teams and organisations is supported.

Signs Your Workplace Might Be in Survival Mode

Keep out at eye for the following -

• People avoiding risks or sticking to the status quo;

• Communication that feels guarded or strained - or non-existent;

• Burnout, absenteeism, or disengagement on the rise.

Survival mode is exhausting for everyone, but it need not be permanent. With intentional leadership, you can shift the climate of the workplace, address the above issues and set up your team to thrive.

How to Cultivate a Positive and Thriving Workplace Climate

1. Foster Psychological Safety

   Encourage open dialogue by asking for feedback and listening without judgment. When people feel safe to speak up, collaboration and innovation will follow.

2. Recognise and Celebrate Contributions

   Show your team their work matters. A simple “thank you” or acknowledgment of effort can boost morale and make people feel valued.

3. Connect Work to Purpose

   Help your team see the bigger picture. Explain how their efforts contribute to broader goals or make a difference for others - purpose fuels passion and longer term sustainability.

4. Prioritise Wellbeing and Selfcare

   Encourage breaks, model healthy boundaries, and check in regularly on how people are feeling. Wellbeing is the foundation of sustained performance.

The Payoff of a Thriving Climate

When leaders focus on cultivating a positive workplace climate, the benefits ripple through every aspect of the organisation. Teams become more creative, engaged, and cohesive. People bring their full selves to work because they feel supported and inspired.

My Thriving Sustainably program, is designed for professionals and leaders who want to prioritise and protect personal and professional wellbeing from the demands of the workplace. It provides individuals with the skills to create a psychologically healthy workplace environment that supports the cultivation of a positive workplace which, in turn, supports the wellbeing of the people with whom you work.

This one day program also provides professionals with a well-deserved chance to consider their own needs and build practical strategies to strengthen professional sustainability.

Upcoming public training programs

relevant previous newsletters you may be interested in…