The Development of a Participatory Leadership Model Based on the Buddhist Peaceful Means: A Case Study of Coffee Shop Entrepreneurs in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province

Abstract

The purposes of this research article were to: 1) study the characteristics of participatory leadership, 2) analyze the application of Buddhist peaceful means concepts in management, and 3) develop management guidelines based on Buddhist peaceful means leadership for coffee shop entrepreneurs. This study utilized a qualitative research methodology, employing a semi-structured interview form as the research instrument, supplemented by literature reviews and secondary data. The key informants comprised 18 participants in total, including 6 coffee shop entrepreneurs selected based on the criteria of being the primary managers of the shops, and 12 regular customers selected based on the criteria of having used the services more than 3 times.

The research findings revealed that: 1) The entrepreneurs exhibited participatory leadership by empowering employees to participate in expressing opinions and making decisions, which fostered an atmosphere of cooperation, trust, and mutual understanding; 2) The entrepreneurs concretely applied Buddhist peaceful means concepts in their management by anchoring business operations on the principles of mindfulness (Sati), loving-kindness (Mettā), equanimity (Upekkhā), patience (Khanti), and wisdom (Paññā), which were vital to building favorable relationships with both employees and customers; and 3) participatory leadership based on Buddhist peaceful means prioritized customer happiness no less than employee happiness. This highlights a critical management characteristic that evaluates business success through the dimensions of happiness, peace, and spiritual value, rather than merely financial performance. Additionally, the study proposed a management framework called the Participatory Leadership Model Based on Buddhist Peaceful Means, which consists of 3 main dimensions: a mindful and compassionate leader dimension, an employee participation and sense of ownership dimension, and a warm and sincere customer service dimension. With the leader acting as the center to project internal values outward, this approach results in a positive business image coupled with long-term sustainable growth.