At Geomatikk, social sustainability isn’t just a policy—it’s a practice. And that practice starts with
leadership.
Recognising the deep connection between psychological safety, motivation, and well-being, Geomatikk’s executive team made a bold decision: to enroll in a course on inner development rooted in neuroscience and human connection. Over several months, the CEO, CFO, CHRO, CTO, and CPO came together not only to learn—but to grow, reflect, and lead by example.
– If we want to create a workplace where people feel safe, motivated, and seen – then we as leaders have to start by doing the inner work ourselves.
Siri Schmidt-Horix, CHRO of Geomatikk Group
Neuroscience Meets Leadership
The course began by grounding leaders in the neuroscience behind sustainable performance. They explored how brain health, focus, and emotional regulation are supported by five key pillars: nutrition, hydration, oxygenation (physical activity), sleep, and silence.
Each leader committed to small, personal steps to restore balance and take ownership of their own well-being—because leadership begins from within.
Especially the neuroscience part—it was really important for us to understand why taking breaks, drinking water, or eating well actually matters,” adds Siri.
And because we learned it together, it’s easier to encourage each other. It’s now something we respect among us.
By modelling healthier habits and self-awareness, the leadership team is creating more space for others to maintain their own balance in daily working life.
Developing the Inner Skills for Collaboration
As the course progressed, the focus turned to three key inner skills from the Inner Development Goals (IDG) framework: communication, trust, and co-creation—all part of the Collaboration dimension. These are not just abstract ideals—they are practical, relational tools that shape how people show up, interact, and contribute to a culture of inclusion, trust, and shared success.
Leaders practiced simple yet powerful techniques for relaxation, deep listening, and meaningful connection. They reflected on their different leadership styles and personality types—and had the opportunity to visually experience how their diversity complements the whole.
One thing is that leadership training is part of our routine—but this was something new,” says Siri. “Focusing on inner development rather than external ways of collaborating was very interesting. In leadership teams, it’s quite often hard to talk about what we carry inside ourselves—this gave us a way to start.”
This shared understanding deepened trust among leaders and strengthened their ability to act as one Geomatikk.
– It was powerful to see how our diversity actually strengthens us. We learned to understand, accept, and count more on each other.
One of the participants
From Inner Growth to Shared Vision
The final part of the course brought in the broader leadership group—including the Managing Directors of Geomatikk’s daughter companies—for a full-day team-building workshop focused on aligning the company’s direction for the year ahead.
This collective session sparked creativity, clarity, and shared purpose, anchoring Geomatikk’s mission while creating space for deeper trust, innovation, and cross-company collaboration to grow.
Siri reflects:
– It has brought us closer together as a leadership team. And I believe the ripple effects will be felt across the organisation.
When leaders model openness, continuous improvement, and authentic connection, the ripple effects extend far beyond the room—shaping the culture across the entire company
At a Glance
How Inner Development Supports Social Sustainability
- Well-being rooted in neuroscience– Neuroscience-based training that promotes sustainable performance and supports mental and emotional balance.
- Skills for human connection – Development of collaboration skills—communication, trust, and co-creation—at the core of inclusive and connected teams.
- Shared direction, shared purpose – Vision-building across leadership levels creates
- alignment and a stronger sense of meaning in everyday work.
- Personal responsibility for well-being – Leaders take accountability for their own physical and mental balance, setting the tone for the wider culture.
- The ripple effect: from workplace to society – When employees feel safe, connected, andvalued at work, they show up as more engaged family members, neighbours, and citizens – contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable society
Real Impact
When leadership goes inward, the whole culture moves forward. By investing in their own growth, Geomatikk’s top leaders are cultivating a workplace where people feel safe, valued, and inspired to co-create the future together
