True knowledge vs empowering knowledge: conceptualizing a theory of mindfulness and knowledge transfer (TMKT)

Abstract

PurposeMindfulness is the human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we're doing. This study explores on the impact of mindfulness on different elements of knowledge management, knowledge creation, knowledge sharing and knowledge hiding.Design/methodology/approachThe authors undertake an inductive reasoning approach whereby they try to generate themes from specific observations and conceptualize the theory of mindfulness and knowledge transfer.FindingsThis study finds out that mindfulness critically facilitates an open environment and enhances the clarity of thought which aids in effective knowledge creation. Such a realistic understanding about the present scenario encourages employees to share knowledge and equips them to collaborate and effectively work in teams. Surprisingly, this study also finds that mindfulness increases the result orientation to the extent that employees tried to hide knowledge from their co-workers targeting certain self-desired outcomes. In other words, similar to knowledge creation and knowledge sharing, mindfulness increases agenda-based knowledge hiding.Originality/valueThe theory of mindfulness and knowledge transfer states that mindfulness increases knowledge creation, knowledge sharing and agenda-based knowledge hiding.

Is knowledge liberating? The role of knowledge behaviors and competition on the workplace happiness of healthcare professionals

“…We propose that while the modern pressures to optimize time and efficiency can enhance the happiness of existing stakeholders (Lee et al, 2021), they also promote counterproductive knowledge behaviors (Hammoda and Durst, 2022;Karamitri et al, 2017) Furthermore, our data revealed an indirect but meaningful link between a competitive environment and knowledge sharing, prompting caution when evaluating the vital role of knowledge sharing in workplace happiness (H10). Supporting this, the positive effect of knowledge sharing on psychological outcomes tied to workplace happiness aligns with recent suggestions of using knowledge as an empowering tool among knowledge workers (Issac et al, 2024). In addition, our findings lend weight to arguments around the impact of team interdependence and cultural complexity in healthcare organizations.…”

“…A competitive environment’s demands and resource scarcities (Connelly et al ., 2012; Chatterjee et al ., 2021) could foster a behavior causing healthcare professionals to amass knowledge without direct intent to obstruct the organization’s knowledge flows (Hammoda and Durst, 2022). Moreover, the view of knowledge as a source of power and psychological property in knowledge-dense settings (Peng, 2013) sets grounds to view knowledge hoarding as a protective strategy that positively impacts individual well-being in intense competition (Issac et al ., 2024).…”

“…Given the complex nature of healthcare organizations (Karamat et al ., 2019; Karamitri et al ., 2017), we proposed the Social Exchange Theory and the Conservation of Resources Theory as additional frameworks to examine healthcare professionals’ workplace happiness. Our approach highlights the psychosocial aspects of knowledge as an organizational asset and its connection to individual empowerment (Peng, 2013; Issac et al ., 2024). Our validation of hypotheses connecting knowledge behaviors and happiness outcomes (H7, H10) underscores the value of knowledge as a critical social asset with implications for positive psychological outcomes (Issac et al ., 2024).…”

“…While research into the harmful impacts of knowledge hiding in healthcare is limited, recent studies suggest it negatively affects the well-being and happiness of healthcare professionals, leading to psychological distress and workplace violence (Alam et al ., 2021; Pandey et al ., 2021; Ratiu et al ., 2021; Bhatti et al ., 2023; Islam and Chaudari, 2024). In light of these findings, discussions around promoting healthy knowledge behaviors emphasize the potential of mindfulness to foster a clear and open environment (Issac et al ., 2024).…”

Guest editorial: Mindfulness and relational systems in organizations: enabling content, context and process

“…In the second article, "True knowledge vs empowering knowledge: conceptualizing a theory of mindfulness and knowledge transfer (TMKT)," Issac et al (2024) explore the influence of mindfulness on different elements of knowledge management: knowledge creation, knowledge sharing and knowledge hiding using an inductive reasoning approach. They found that mindfulness enables an open environment and improves thought clarity, which helps in creating knowledge effectively.…”