We rarely question whether people have souls. We instinctively understand that the essential life force within each of us is what we call a soul. The word itself originates from the Greek anima – meaning “to animate”.
If you think about it, the soul is the great puppeteer, the unseen energy that moves our bodies through life. Yet most of us don’t often pause to consider what it really is, or why it matters.
Across many religions and philosophies, the soul is described as immortal: an unending energy that cannot be destroyed. Interestingly, the first law of thermodynamics echoes this idea—energy can neither be created nor destroyed; it can only change form. To me, that’s more than coincidence.
So, what about organisations? Can they, too, have a soul?
If we understand the soul as the energy body and consciousness of an individual, then it follows that a group of people coming together—bringing their energy, values, and intentions—creates a collective soul. An organisation’s soul is formed by the sum of everyone within it.
Beyond mission statements
Many organisations devote time to crafting mission statements, vision declarations, and values. That work is valuable, but often treated as a one-off exercise. Too frequently, the same words are dusted off year after year, with little reflection on whether they still hold true.
When individuals fail to reflect on who they are becoming, their lives risk becoming shallow, unexamined, and disconnected from deeper meaning. The same is true for organisations. Just as our personal values evolve with life experience, so too should an organisation revisit and re-examine its principles. A “soul-wise” business keeps asking: Are these values still alive? Are they truly guiding how we show up today?
A collective consciousness
Organisations absolutely have a collective soul—a consciousness born of everyone within them. Leaders play a particularly influential role, given their power and visibility, but they are not the sole custodians. Every individual contributes to the energy of the whole.
In my work with organisations on inclusion, belonging, and purpose, the word “soul” may not always be spoken aloud. Yet it is always present. It is the core from which all values, all principles, and all behaviours flow.
Why it matters
When an organisation neglects its soul, it risks becoming mechanical—efficient perhaps, but hollow. When it nurtures its soul, it fosters deeper connection, authentic culture, and a sense of shared purpose. That’s when it becomes not only more resilient, but also more human.
So I’ll leave you with a question:
What is your organisation doing to understand its soul—and to nurture it for the benefit of everyone it serves?
👉 Call to Action (CTA):
If this resonates with you, take a moment this week to reflect on your organisation’s soul. Are your values still alive? Do your behaviours truly reflect them? If you’d like to explore how to connect more deeply with your organisation’s collective soul—in ways that strengthen inclusion, belonging, and purpose—let’s start a conversation.