While doing some final research for my latest guide, I came across a fascinating study that flips the way we think about workplace culture. You know how medicine is often about fighting illness rather than building health? Or how education tends to focus on fixing deficits instead of building on strengths?

Well, the way we approach workplace culture has traditionally followed the same path—zeroing in on what’s broken. Think: stress, burnout, heavy workloads, toxic environments, exclusionary practices. We’re great at identifying what makes work a negative experience.

But here’s the exciting part: there’s a growing body of research asking a different question. Instead of focusing on what's wrong, researchers are beginning to explore what makes work a positive, energy-boosting experience.

The study I found asked a bold question: “Is it possible to gain energy at work?”

The answer? 🙌 YES.

What Makes Work Energizing?

An energy-boosting work environment has a few key traits, and they align with what many of us intuitively know but rarely prioritize:

• Opportunities for recovery 🧘‍♀️💤🌿
  Workplaces that support recovery—whether through breaks, flexible schedules, or a supportive environment—help employees recharge during the workday.

• High autonomy 🚀🤝🗝️
  The ability to make decisions, manage your own work, and take ownership creates a sense of empowerment that fuels energy.

• Positive work environment 🌟🤗🤝
  When employees feel comfortable in their roles, experience mutual respect, and share common values with their team, it builds trust and positivity.

• Strong internal satisfaction 🎯😊💡
  Feeling that your work is meaningful, being happy about going to work, and having variety or challenges in your role contribute to a deep sense of fulfillment.

Introducing: Regenerative Work

The most exciting idea in the study is the concept of regenerative work—work that doesn’t just demand your energy but actually recharges you. Think about that for a second. Imagine coming home from work feeling energized, not depleted. Imagine work as a source of growth and vitality, not exhaustion.

This concept isn’t just theoretical—it’s a growing priority for companies that want to build thriving, high-performing teams.

Why This Matters to Us

At DWL, many clients come to us in crisis mode. Their culture isn’t just failing—it’s causing real harm. People are quitting, teams are overwhelmed, and burnout is rampant. When we start asking questions, teams can usually list everything that’s wrong. But when we ask what’s going right, we often get blank stares.

It’s human nature. We’re problem solvers, and our instinct is to focus on fixing what’s broken. 🔨

But this study reminded me of something critical: if we only focus on fixing problems, we miss the opportunity to create something better. We miss the chance to design work environments that energize, inspire, and regenerate.

This is What We’re Building

This study validates so much of what we do at DWL. It aligns with what we’ve learned from our clients and what we’re sharing in our new guide and forthcoming book. Our mission is to help companies move beyond problem-solving and start building regenerative, energizing workplaces.

Does this idea resonate with you? Could your organization shift toward regenerative work?

If you're ready to learn more—or curious about where to start—let’s connect. We’d love to help you create a workplace that doesn’t just work, but one that thrives.