Optimising Performance: How Jungian Alchemy Informs Organisational Transformation

Michelle LeBaron & Nadja Alexander, "Optimising Performance: How Jungian Alchemy Informs Organisational Transformation", Organizational Aesthetics: Vol. 9: Issue 2, 62-82 (2020)

Singapore Management University School of Law Research Paper No. 11/2020

22 Pages Posted: 3 Jun 2020 Last revised: 4 Dec 2020

See all articles by Nadja Marie Alexander

Nadja Marie Alexander

Singapore Management University - School of Law; Singapore Management University - Centre for AI & Data Governance; Singapore International Dispute Resolution Academy

Michelle LeBaron

University of British Columbia (UBC)

Date Written: February 1, 2020

Abstract

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.

Keywords: Organizational change, conflict engagement, arts-based methods, expressive arts, Jungian theory, alchemy

Suggested Citation

Alexander, Nadja Marie and LeBaron, Michelle, Optimising Performance: How Jungian Alchemy Informs Organisational Transformation (February 1, 2020). Michelle LeBaron & Nadja Alexander, "Optimising Performance: How Jungian Alchemy Informs Organisational Transformation", Organizational Aesthetics: Vol. 9: Issue 2, 62-82 (2020), Singapore Management University School of Law Research Paper No. 11/2020, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3583370

Nadja Marie Alexander (Contact Author)

Singapore Management University - School of Law ( email )

55 Armenian Street
Singapore, 179943
Singapore

Singapore Management University - Centre for AI & Data Governance ( email )

55 Armenian Street
Singapore
Singapore

Singapore International Dispute Resolution Academy ( email )

Singapore Management University
55 Armenian St
Singapore, 179943
Singapore
179943 (Fax)

Michelle LeBaron

University of British Columbia (UBC)

2329 West Mall
Vancouver, British Columbia BC V6T 1Z4
Canada

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