Problem & Impact - Burnout affects up to 65% of full-time engineers in the last year, indicating a widespread issue within the engineering field [6] - A disconnect exists where 84% of executives believe their companies prioritize employee well-being, while employees' experiences suggest otherwise [7] - Companies with healthy cultures deliver up to 200% higher returns to shareholders, highlighting the financial impact of culture [9] - Authoritarian, mechanistic cultures, originating from early mass production, are still prevalent despite their negative impact on people and finances [10] Root Cause - Current work organization principles are outdated, stemming from the 19th and 20th centuries, focusing on repetitive tasks [10] - While professionals recognize the importance of a healthy culture, they often lack the knowledge on how to achieve it [11] - Change is difficult, requiring the destruction of old ways of thinking, which can be intimidating [12] Solution & Characteristics of Thriving Cultures - Thriving cultures are characterized by psychological safety, shared purpose, and opportunities for self-growth [12][13] - Leaders in thriving cultures make room for humanness, embodying the desired culture, and nurturing individuals [15][17][18] - Leaders should create structures that allow everyone to be heard, embody the culture they want to achieve, and nurture individuals by reducing complexity and empowering them [17][18] - Leaders should act as gardeners, creating the perfect environment for individuals to thrive, providing support and nutrients based on individual needs [19][20]