Integrated conceptual model of Workplace Spirituality enabling Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Goals in Business Organizations
Positive human behavior toward the environment and society is essential for achieving ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals in business organizations. Workplace Spirituality (WPS) can play a significant role in psychologically engaging employees and shaping their ethical, sustainable, and social behavior. This study aims to examine key factors of workplace spirituality and their impact on employee behavior. The research adopts a systematic literature review to identify gaps, contradictions, and opportunities and to develop a conceptual framework. The review indicates that although WPS has been explored in isolated studies, there is a strong need for an integrated conceptual model, which this study addresses through a structured approach. The findings reveal a positive relationship between WPS and employee behavior at individual, organizational, and leadership levels. The proposed conceptual model includes four independent variables: organizational aspects, leadership style, individual psychological capabilities (emotional and spiritual intelligence), and higher purpose. The study contributes to both theory and practice by enhancing managerial understanding of WPS and supporting the achievement of ESG goals through positive behavioral transformation. It emphasizes that management decisions rooted in spiritual values—such as honor, morality, kindness, hope, love, and nurturing—can help organizations address corporate challenges more effectively. Additionally, the study extends Maslow’s motivation theory by recognizing self-transcendence, grounded in spiritual values, as the highest level of workplace motivation.