What does it take for work to be not only safe, fair and productive, but also meaningful, motivating and fulfilling? In her current article in the renowned Springer Reference work "SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth", our Co-Managing Director Dr. oec. HSG Kathrin Neumüller explores precisely this question and shows why the socio-psychological concept of inspiration plays a central role in the design of decent work.
The article sheds light on how inspiration strengthens the psychological empowerment of employees, promotes intrinsic motivation and creativity and helps to integrate purpose and personal development into everyday working life. It thus ties in directly with the UN Sustainable Development Goal SDG 8 "Decent Work for All" and provides inspiration on how this goal can be implemented in practice.
At the same time, it critically reflects on where the limits of inspired work lie - for example, in the risk of emotional exhaustion or over-identification with the profession. Organizations receive concrete tips on how they can create an environment that promotes inspiration without instrumentalizing it.
Anyone interested in current scientific perspectives on meaningful work, motivation and transformation will find a well-founded introduction here - with reference to international research and practical examples from Switzerland.
Click here for the article on Springer: Inspiration as a contribution to good work - Read now
Article published on August 18, 2025
About Dr. Kathrin Neumüller
Dr. oec. HSG Kathrin Neumüller is Co-Managing Director at ValueQuest and an expert in employee inspiration and empowerment. She also teaches strategic management in the MBA program at the ZHAW. She holds a doctorate from the University of St. Gallen (HSG) and studied at the University of Cambridge. Learn more about Kathrin
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