Psychologically safety isn’t just about creating a comfortable climate, but about embracing discomfort. That’s because discomfort helps us grow and address complex problems, which in turn leads to greater psychological safety.

This means shifting from a parent-child dynamic to an adult-to-adult relationship within teams. That involves relating to people's potential, treating them as competent professionals, and involving them in the decision-making process.

A psychologically “safe” environment without a level of discomfort can hinder people’s growth and professional development, which can affect innovation and creativity.

To create a more psychologically safe environment, this week’s guest, Lisa Gill, suggests staying curious for longer, asking good coaching questions, and being honest and open about our challenges as leaders.

Lisa’s tips for a happier workplace

1. Allow space for people to be something other than happy if that's what's real for them.
2. Create a climate of psychological safety by embracing discomfort as well as safety.
3. Practice adult-to-adult conversations by relating to people's potential and being curious and empathetic.

Links

• Episode 10 – Beyond Budgeting, with Bjarte Bogsnes
• Connect with Lisa via LinkedIn
• Why Psychological Safety is Important for Productive Teamwork, by Shane Snow
• Jessica and Douglas Rauch from Aquadec on tradesmen and teal – from Lisa’s Leadermorphasis podcast
• The Advice Trap: Be Humble, Stay Curious & Change the Way You Lead Forever, by Michael Bungay Stanier
• Brave New Work: Are You Ready to Reinvent Your Organization?, by Aaron Dignan
• Liberating Structures