Title: A holistic view on cultivating consciousness in informal sectors: western and Indian perspectives

Authors: Sharda S. Nandram; Surabhi Surendra

Addresses: Nyenrode Business University, 3621 BG Breukelen, The Netherlands ' Institute of Planning and Management, Pocket E, PallavPuram, Meerut, 250110, India

Abstract: The importance of informal sectors in the overall development of an economy can not be ignored given how big informal sectors are in size. Given the kind of tough working conditions the informal sectors operate in, it is advisable for the enterprises to cultivate consciousness in order to enhance the holistic well being of the enterprises as well as that of the people involved. Consciousness is a deeper version of mindfulness and is a concept that arises from eastern wisdom of self-realisation and awareness. There is a huge difference in how the two sides of the world perceive consciousness and mindfulness. While the west looks at mindfulness as a mental orientation composing openness, being in the moment, presence and alertness, Indian perspective tends to a holistic understanding by relating it with one's inner self; becoming aware of one's inner self for finding the oneness with all existence and acting accordingly to that oneness. This paper discusses consciousness development and its impact on effectiveness in informal sectors. The research question addresses what is consciousness, why and how could consciousness development increase workers effectiveness in tough conditions within the informal sector.

Keywords: mindfulness; informal sector; informal economy; consciousness development; workplace effectiveness; shadow economy; self-realisation; awareness; India; worker effectiveness.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBG.2015.069702

International Journal of Business and Globalisation, 2015 Vol.14 No.4, pp.420 - 437

Received: 14 Feb 2014
Accepted: 02 Nov 2014

Published online: 29 May 2015 *

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