WHY ARE YOU IN BUSINESS?

Creating a social role in business organizations

In today’s world, businesses are more than just profit-driven entities, they’re becoming second homes for employees. Where culture shapes well-being, mental health, and identity. The question Why are you in business? should encompass not only financial success but how your company nurtures employees and contributes to societal well-being.

Business as a Social Force

As we discussed in The Decline of Religion: A New Search for Meaning and The Rise of Societal Refugees, traditional institutions like religion are losing their hold on people’s sense of purpose. More individuals are now seeking meaning in new places, including the workplace. As people feel disconnected from societal structures, businesses have a growing responsibility to step in and provide that sense of purpose and belonging.

By creating purpose-driven cultures, companies can become platforms for connection and growth. As such filling a gap that religion and other traditional systems once occupied. This reflects the growing trend of individuals feeling like "societal refugees," searching for new spaces to find meaning, whether in work, communities, or alternative frameworks for life.

Examples of purpose-driven businesses

Salesforce and Patagonia are great examples of companies embracing purpose alongside profit. Salesforce’s "Ohana" culture has led to a 25% productivity boost by treating employees like family. Patagonia’s commitment to environmental activism has not only driven $1 billion in revenue but also cemented their role as a leader in social and environmental change.

Trends and data supporting this shift

The trend toward purpose-driven businesses is backed by hard data. Gallup’s study found that companies with highly engaged employees see 21% greater profitability. Poor mental health, according to the World Health Organization, costs the global economy $1 trillion annually in lost productivity. Organizations prioritizing mental health and flexibility have reduced burnout by 40%, demonstrating the value of a strong, supportive workplace culture.

Aligning purpose with profit

When businesses position themselves as sources of purpose, they attract not only loyal employees but also customers who resonate with their values. By answering Why are you in business? companies can redefine their role as platforms for positive change, fostering both social good and profitability.

Practical steps for aligning purpose with profit:

1. Define a purpose beyond profit: Identify how your business can improve the well-being of employees and society.
2. Create a strong, supportive culture: Foster a culture that prioritizes mental health, flexibility, and personal growth.
3. Engage employees in shared values: Build a sense of community where everyone works toward a shared mission.
4. Adapt to trends: Embrace changes like hybrid work models and mental health programs to meet modern expectations and improve well-being.

The Business Hippie way: aligning purpose and profit

At the Business Hippie Club, we believe businesses should serve as platforms for both personal and societal transformation. The question Why are you in business? should focus on creating a meaningful impact on people’s lives, beyond just financial gain. By aligning purpose with profit, companies can foster an environment where employees thrive, customers feel connected, and society benefits.

Let’s work together to create (y)our ideal world, where purpose and profit come together to drive positive change and build a brighter future for everyone.

Plan a talk to discuss this, in my online agenda: www.calendly.com/hansvanderakt

Peace, Love & Happiness!

Hans van de Rakt

Business Hippie Club

www.businesshippie.club