Analyzing the survey results of over 30,000 top performers who have found happiness in their career paths, one of the dominant strength categories was “agile.” Agile teammates are a valuable asset to any workplace, thanks to their resilience and growth mindset. For agile workers, roadblocks are not strong deterrents; instead, they are opportunities to learn. They are open to new ideas and are more willing to take risks. This mindset encourages innovative thinking and problem-solving. These skills are in high demand across many industries, with an immediate need in technology and startups, but they also translate well to others, such as health care or retail.
For example, one survey respondent, Regina W., an engineer who identified as agile, said, “I don’t dwell on my mistakes. I learn from them, of course, but I take the lesson and leave the rest.”
Another agile survey respondent, Alex T., who works as a designer, said, “Having a growth mindset has allowed me to see every challenge as an opportunity to grow and improve. It keeps me motivated and ready to tackle whatever comes my way.”
How do you cultivate an environment where agile workers thrive? There are six key priorities to consider based on the survey results.
1. What a good boss looks like to an agile worker
A good boss for an agile person nurtures a supportive environment, fosters collaboration and encourages creativity. For an agile worker, this will help them thrive by leveraging their adaptability and responsiveness to change. They’ll feel valued and motivated, which leads to higher job satisfaction and productivity.
Tonya L., a copywriter, says, “Having a boss who has the same mindset as I do helps me understand and complete tasks successfully.”
2. Work-life balance
For an agile person, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial. Agile workers thrive in environments where they can adapt quickly and respond to change efficiently. A good work-life balance prevents burnout and promotes sustained energy, which is essential for their dynamic role.
Gretchen J., an event planner, says, “It took a while to find it, but achieving a good work-life balance has made all the difference. I feel more energized and capable of handling the demands of my job.”
3. Making enough money
Making enough money is pivotal to maintaining the lifestyle of an agile person. Financial stability enables them to invest in continuous learning, attend industry conferences and acquire the latest tools and technologies that keep them ahead of the curve. Furthermore, it reduces stress and allows them to focus on innovating and delivering high-quality work without financial distractions.
Alex M., a software developer, shares, “Knowing that my financial needs are met gives me peace of mind and the freedom to experiment and grow in my role. It’s a key factor in my overall happiness and productivity at work.”
4. Autonomy and flexibility
Autonomy and flexibility are paramount for an agile person because they allow for the freedom to innovate and adapt to new challenges without being constrained by rigid rules. When they have the liberty to make decisions and customize their work approach, they are more likely to excel, deliver exceptional results and be happy while doing so.
Shane S., a marketing strategist, says, “Having the autonomy to implement my own ideas and the flexibility to work on diverse projects is what makes my job fulfilling and exciting.”
5. Professional growth
Professional growth is vital for an agile person because it fuels their desire to continually improve and stay ahead of the curve in a fast-paced environment. Continuous learning and skill development not only enhance their expertise but also keep them motivated and engaged in their work. By constantly seeking new challenges and expanding their knowledge base, they can innovate, adapt to changing circumstances and remain resilient in the face of adversity.
“The opportunity for professional growth keeps me energized and driven,” says Heidi L., a project manager. “It ensures that I’m always evolving and bringing fresh ideas to the table, which is crucial in my ever-changing field.”
6. Meaningful work
When the tasks and projects they engage in resonate with their values and passions, it ignites a deeper level of commitment and enthusiasm for an agile person.
“Knowing that my work makes a difference and aligns with my personal goals keeps me motivated and happy,” shares Chris T., a UX designer. “It’s what gives me the energy to keep pushing boundaries and finding creative solutions.”
Any workplace that wants to attract and retain top agile talent will focus on nurturing the key factors to appreciate the full benefits of these resilient and innovative high performers.
Opinions expressed by SmartBrief contributors are their own.
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