The Art-of-Living at Work: Measuring and Fostering the Art-of-Living in Organizational Settings

The pursuit of a fulfilling and balanced life is becoming increasingly important in today’s fast-paced and demanding work environment. The art-of-living concept provides a promising approach, emphasizing a conscious and intentional way of living that leads to a fulfilling and happy life. Through continuous self-reflection, the strategic use of personal strengths, and a mindful awareness of opportunities to shape one's well-being, individuals can actively foster personal growth and reduce stress. Aligned with the principles of Positive Psychology, this approach emphasizes the systematic cultivation of qualities like savoring, optimism, and human strengths, offering effective strategies for creating a balanced and meaningful life. This doctoral thesis addresses the urgent need for effective, evidence-based well-being interventions in workplace settings, particularly given the increasing demands on employees to manage stress and maintain productivity. The research is structured around three core studies, each contributing to a deeper understanding of how art-of-living strategies can be systematically measured, applied, and optimized for real-world effectiveness. Study 1 focuses on developing and validating a comprehensive Art-of-Living Inventory that assesses 11 key strategies for well-being. With both a German and English version, validated with N = 3468, the measurement instrument is designed for international usage. Study 2 explores the effectiveness of art-of-living interventions in both online and in-person workplace settings, examining whether a focus on strengths, weaknesses, or a balanced approach yields the most significant well-being improvements. Study 3 examines the optimal duration of art-of-living training programs. Flight attendants participate in online trainings of varying lengths to determine which duration leads to greater and more sustainable improvements in well-being. Overall, the dissertation contributes to the field of Positive Organizational Psychology by offering practical, resource-efficient solutions for enhancing employee well-being. It emphasizes the importance of adaptable and scientifically grounded strategies that empower individuals to thrive in modern workplace environments, providing a foundation for future research and broader application.