DIGITAL WELLBEING BY DESIGN The technologies meant to bring us together add to the challenge of leadership in the evolving digital era. Caitlin Krause reveals how a layered approach to digital wellbeing can empower the collective and ensure that technology serves people, not the other way around
L eadership today is complex. Whether you’re guiding a team in higher education or leading an enterprise organisation, the demands of a hyperconnected, always‑on world can feel overwhelming. At the same time, the loneliness crisis – one of the greatest barriers to individual and organisational thriving – is on the rise, amplified by the very technologies meant to bring us together. Yet within this challenge lies an opportunity. Leaders who embrace a layered approach to digital wellbeing can reimagine their environments, blending AI, spatial computing technologies and human connection to create systems where people and teams flourish. If we allow it, technology can augment our ability to feel wonder, spark imagination and deepen our sense of connection. It’s the “how” of our leadership design choices that can make all the difference in this digitally integrated system. There’s a lot of freedom, once we consider the
as a powerful partner when approached with intention. AI has the potential to enhance leadership by handling repetitive tasks, providing real-time insights and freeing leaders to focus on what truly matters. Tools such as emotional analytics or AI-powered coaching systems can strengthen a leader’s ability to connect with their team. These technologies, however, are not solutions in isolation; they are enablers of deeper, more intentional leadership. This is a pivotal time for intention-setting and ensuring that a foundation is in place with the right vision, values and benchmarks. But AI is just one piece of the puzzle. Leadership is about more than tools and systems, it’s about relationships. Right now, the quality of human relationships is at stake. AN ANTIDOTE TO LONELINESS Loneliness is not simply a personal issue, it’s also an organisational one. Research shows that disconnected teams are less productive, less creative and more prone “Leaders can design a future that elevates the quality of human experience”
to burnout. Leaders must address this head-on, cultivating connection as a core element of thriving. Immersive technologies, such as 3D-focused XR (extended reality), are creating new opportunities for building authentic relationships. Through XR, leaders and educators can design shared experiences that promote collaboration and empathy. For example, an XR simulation might place team members in the shoes of their peers, fostering greater understanding. Loneliness is currently a global crisis, yet a digital revolution is underway that gives the whole planet the opportunity to be connected like never before. With the right approach, technology can bridge these gaps, offering new ways for leaders to create belonging. A LAYERED APPROACH Leadership grounded in digital wellbeing requires a layered approach – one that weaves tools, practices and cultural values into a cohesive system. At its foundation, this framework brings together technology, culture and connection to foster environments where people and organisations can thrive. The first layer involves a wellbeing- centric approach to technology. Leaders can harness AI and XR to not only streamline processes but also enhance creativity and empathy within teams. These tools act as enablers, allowing
possibilities for agency. AI AS A PARTNER
To lead effectively in this new era, it’s essential to rethink our relationship with technology. Artificial intelligence (AI), often viewed as a threat to human intuition and creativity, can instead serve
36 Business Impact • ISSUE 1 • 2025
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