Mindful leadership practices in Vietnamese business context a qualitative study using aiqda

Abstract

This study explores the conceptualization, implementation, and organizational impact of mindful leadership within Vietnamese business contexts through comprehensive analysis of expert interviews and leadership discourse. A qualitative thematic analysis was conducted on 12 in-depth interviews from the VIETSUCCESS YouTube channel's mindful leadership series (2023-2025). The study analyzed interviews with leading executives from major Vietnamese corporations and renowned spiritual teacher Thích Minh Niệm, utilizing AI-Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis (AIQDA) to identify patterns, themes, and cultural nuances in mindful leadership practices. Five major themes emerged: (1) Foundational Philosophy - emphasizing kindness, presence, and mindfulness as core leadership principles; (2) Personal Transformation Journey - highlighting crisis-catalyzed awakening and continuous self- development; (3) Practical Implementation - demonstrating integration of meditation, reflection, and mindful decision-making into business operations; (4) Organizational Impact - revealing cultural transformation, enhanced employee wellbeing, and sustainable performance; and (5) Cultural Integration - showing unique Vietnamese adaptation of Eastern wisdom with modern business practices. Findings provide comprehensive framework for Vietnamese and international organizations seeking to implement mindful leadership practices, emphasizing cultural sensitivity and gradual transformation approaches.