Bravespace Workplace

About the Author

Moe Carrick is a passionate advocate for creating workplaces that truly support and nurture the people who work there. As the Principal and Founder of Moementum, Inc., a Certified BCorp consulting firm, she is dedicated to the vision of creating a world that works for everyone. Carrick's work focuses on the so-called "soft stuff" that really matters: people, culture, leadership, team health, and work fit. Her diverse client portfolio includes companies like Prudential Financial, REI, The Nature Conservancy, and Nintendo of America. Through her work and her book, "Bravespace Workplace: Making Your Company Fit for Human Life," Carrick inspires leaders and organizations to create environments where people can thrive both personally and professionally.

Main Idea

The main idea of "Bravespace Workplace: Making Your Company Fit for Human Life" is that traditional workplaces often fail to support the true needs of their employees, leading to toxic environments where people are unengaged and unhappy. Moe Carrick argues that workplaces should be "Bravespace" environments where people feel safe to be themselves, are treated with respect, and are able to contribute meaningfully. The book provides practical strategies for leaders and organizations to create such environments, emphasizing the importance of authentic leadership, human-centered design, and a commitment to people over profit.

Table of Contents

• Introduction: The Call for a Bravespace Workplace
• People Make Companies Great
• AI, Machines, and Robots
• On Profit, Size, and Sharing Wealth
• Escaping a Toxic Workplace
• Workplace = Bravespace: A New Definition
• Instructions for Human Beings
• Creating a Healthier Workplace
• What: A Conscious Culture
• Where/When: Purposeful Design
• Act Now! Ten Behaviors to Start With

Introduction: The Call for a Bravespace Workplace

Carrick opens the book by highlighting the critical issues facing modern workplaces: relentless pressure for profits, toxic environments, and disengaged employees. She argues that businesses can and should do better, not just for the sake of their employees, but for the overall health of society. A "Bravespace Workplace" is defined as a place where people can show up as they are, be both worthy and flawed, and still do great things together. This concept challenges traditional workplace norms and calls for a radical rethinking of how organizations operate.

"Great organizations are employers that consciously and proactively invest time, energy, and resources to make their organizations Bravespace workplaces, where people can show up as they are, both worthy and flawed, and do great things together." - Moe Carrick

The introduction sets the tone for the book, urging readers to consider the deep impact of workplace culture on employee well-being and organizational success. Carrick's vision for a Bravespace workplace is one where authenticity, respect, and mutual support are prioritized, creating an environment conducive to personal and professional growth.

People Make Companies Great

In this chapter, Carrick emphasizes that people are the most valuable asset of any organization. She argues that companies often overlook the human aspect in favor of profits, leading to a lack of engagement and satisfaction among employees. Carrick advocates for a shift in focus towards creating environments where people feel valued and can thrive. She highlights the need for leaders to be real and authentically human, showing vulnerability and empathy towards their employees.

"Meeting the seven needs of employees ensures that they thrive and bring their best talents to work every day, which improves business results." - Moe Carrick

The seven needs that Carrick outlines are crucial for creating a supportive and engaging work environment. These needs include the basic necessities, opportunities to contribute, being seen and appreciated, making meaningful connections, continuous learning, feeling supported, and achieving work-life balance. Carrick argues that when these needs are met, employees are not only happier but also more productive and committed to their work.

The chapter also addresses the importance of inclusive leadership. Carrick stresses that leaders must be attuned to the diverse needs and backgrounds of their employees, fostering an environment where everyone feels included and respected. This includes being aware of potential biases and actively working to create a culture of equity and inclusion.

AI, Machines, and Robots

This chapter explores the role of technology in the workplace and its impact on human labor. Carrick acknowledges the benefits of technology but emphasizes that there are aspects of work that are uniquely human, such as connection, reflection, and communication. She argues that technology should be used to support and enhance these human qualities, rather than replace them.