‘As You Sow So You Reap’: A Multi-case Study on Reshaping Workforce Well-being Through Positive Sustainability at Construction Firms

Abstract

The nature of work has immensely changed in the last few years and so are the workforce expectations. Employees are steadily reassessing why and where they work. Even amidst workplace upheavals, they are in dire search for a sense of purpose to align themselves with that of their firms, whereas organizations still feel that employees sense transaction rather than appreciation. Thereby working with two opposite thoughts and feelings, companies have overlooked the essentials of employee well-being. Here, the role of positive outlook/perspectives of a firm emerge as a vital facet that can help to sustain authentic and motivating experiences at work. Thus positive sustainability at workplace can satiate the employees’ want for social cohesion, trust and purpose. The present work is a multi-case study on four construction firms of West Bengal who were eager to design moments that reflected sustenance of positive aspects amidst all odds. The study revealed five crucial elements of positive sustainability (going beyond the pursuit of perfection, fostering learning agility and grit, mindful gratitude, managing energy rather than time, trust is crucial) which the firms have restored over time. Such aspects have brought about unique transformation at work and lead to resourcefulness.