In Safe to Great, published in the US in September 2023, Skip Bowman unveils a transformative approach to organizational development that integrates a relational growth mindset with the foundational concept of psychological safety. Bowman illustrates how these two principles, when combined, can radically improve workplace dynamics, foster resilience, and drive sustainable growth.
At the heart of Bowman’s model is the relational growth mindset—a perspective that sees growth as a collaborative, interconnected journey where team members support each other’s learning and development. Unlike traditional growth mindsets, which focus on individual potential, the relational approach recognizes that team success hinges on mutual trust, open feedback, and shared accountability.
Psychological safety is central to this approach, creating an environment where individuals feel safe to speak up, take risks, and share ideas without fear of judgment. Bowman shows that without psychological safety, a growth mindset can’t fully take root, as people need the assurance that their voices are valued to pursue innovation and growth fearlessly.
 
Bowman presents a practical, implementable set of principles for leaders to follow, including:
Building Trust and Openness: Cultivate transparent communication and encourage vulnerability, setting the stage for authentic interactions.
Encouraging Continuous Learning and Feedback: Develop systems for regular, constructive feedback that drive team growth and personal accountability.
Fostering a Shared Purpose: Align team goals with a collective mission, creating a powerful sense of unity that fuels resilience.
Promoting Collaborative Problem-Solving: Encourage teams to tackle challenges together, reinforcing the relational mindset and enhancing creativity.
 
With clear examples and step-by-step guidance, Safe to Great provides leaders with the tools to build a culture that is not only high-performing but also committed to sustainability and social responsibility.