Leadership Book Club with Owen Eastwood, author of Belonging
We were thrilled to welcome Owen Eastwood, renowned performance coach and author of Belonging, to our Inspirational Group Book Club on Monday, 31st March. Owen has worked with elite organizations like the All Blacks, European Ryder Cup Team, and Chelsea FC, helping them unlock high performance through the power of belonging.
If you missed the live session, don’t worry—you can watch the full recording below!
The Foundation of Belonging
Owen explained that belonging is a critical foundation, but not a magic fix. While it plays a powerful role in building high-performing teams, it is only part of the overall process. When individuals feel genuinely connected and valued, their anxiety decreases, and their performance improves.
Whakapapa: Connecting Past, Present, and Future
Drawing from his Māori heritage, Owen described the concept of Whakapapa—the idea of being part of a continuous line of people, from ancestors to future generations. Leaders should view themselves as guardians, shaping environments where individuals can thrive today and build a successful future.
The Deal: Creating Psychological Safety and Belonging
To generate belonging, Owen recommends making a simple but powerful “deal” with employees:
- From the organization’s side: Create an environment where people can perform and thrive—one that respects their dignity and helps them feel valued.
- From the individual’s side: Commit to the organization’s code, values, and standards.
This mutual understanding forms a strong foundation for high performance.
The Role of Emotion and Storytelling
High-performing teams don’t avoid emotion—they use it as a powerful source of energy. Owen shared how elite teams like the England Football Team use storytelling and visioning to align individuals with a shared mission. The emphasis is on looking forward and building something meaningful together.
Practical Application in the Workplace
Owen highlighted how even simple gestures, like affirming why someone was chosen for a role, can have a profound impact. His advice? Make it clear to new members why they belong, rather than leaving them to figure it out themselves.
The Dignity Principle
At the core of Owen’s approach is the principle of dignity: Everyone should feel valued and respected. Creating environments where dignity is preserved, even under pressure, is crucial for unlocking performance.
Want more insights?
Watch the full video above to hear Owen’s strategies for building a strong sense of belonging in teams and how you can apply them in your own environment.
Or read Lesley’s blog Belonging: The Key to High Performing Teams?
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