Optimising performance: How Jungian Alchemy informs organisational transformation

• Main Authors: ALEXANDER, Nadja, LEBARON, Michelle
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Institutional Knowledge at Singapore Management University 2020
• Subjects: Organizational change; conflict engagement; arts-based methods; expressive arts; Jungian theory; alchemy; Dispute Resolution and Arbitration; Organizations Law
• Online Access: https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/sol_research/3297; https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/context/sol_research/article/5255/viewcontent/SSRN_id3583370.pdf
• Institution: Singapore Management University

In this paper we explore the alchemical possibilities of aesthetics in transforming organizational performance. We ground our discussion in an exploration of how four alchemical elements – earth, water, air and fire – identified in the work of Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung, can catalyse transformation. Inspired by Jung, we examine how these elements help us to better build awareness – of ourselves, of others in teams and work groups, and of untapped potential in organizational contexts. By developing greater awareness of aesthetics and their alchemical potential, leaders can better navigate the emergent and complex workings of organizational transformation processes, whether change is the desired outcome of a process, or is an undesired consequence of forces beyond an organization’s control.