Why Natural Organization?
Vision
Organizations are living systems. They grow, stagnate, and renew themselves, just like nature. To guide that movement effectively, you need conscious attention and space. This means paying attention to the people and the stories circulating within, and creating space to slow down and reconnect with the bigger picture.
We believe that organizations that invest in the human side of change – focusing on real connection, authentic leadership, and a shared story – not only perform better, but also become more beautiful, more useful, and more enjoyable to be a part of. Storytelling, Mindfulness, and Nature Experience are simple yet incredibly powerful tools to make this happen.
Mission
We help organizations grow and evolve in a human and natural way, using storytelling, mindfulness, and nature as our tools. We always work in the service of the people who work there and the greater good.
Who am I?
My name is Sander, founder of Natuurlijke Organisatie.
Background
I grew up in the dunes of The Hague and put down roots in Amsterdam. I have a background in social psychology and extensive experience in market research and youth communication. Captivated by the power of stories, I co-founded the agency StoryDiggers with Ralph Poldervaart 11 years ago; an agency that uses storytelling to drive strategy, identity, positioning, and change within larger organizations. I have worked for a wide range of clients, from corporations to NGOs and from healthcare institutions to financial firms.
What I saw throughout all those processes: the most meaningful change doesn’t happen when you give people a message, but when you help them find their own story—and share it. And that requires peace and quiet. It requires space. It sometimes requires literally stepping outside for a moment.
In addition to storytelling, I have therefore fully immersed myself in the art of Shinrin Yoku, or “forest bathing,” which is simply about being present in nature in a mindful way. Through Bosbaden Amsterdam, I lead meditative nature walks in and around Amsterdam.
Why Natural Organization
Natural Organization was born out of a desire to bring storytelling and “being natural” together. After all, we humans use stories as metaphors and symbols for personal development. And nature is a wonderfully soothing source of inspiration, but also one that is rich in metaphors—for example, of development, growth, competition, cooperation, and letting go.
I approach my work with curiosity and a spirit of inquiry, always staying close to the people involved. I believe in taking things slowly as a strategy. And in the power of a good story to set something in motion that a step-by-step plan could never achieve.
Who I'm bringing along
Depending on the project, I sometimes collaborate with a small network of specialists. Each one is an expert in their field and fits in well with our approach: collaborative, passionate, and genuine.
Ralph Poldervaart. A seasoned storyteller and change consultant. Ralph and I worked together for years at our agency, StoryDiggers.
Simon Hodges. One of the Netherlands’ best storytellers. Founder of Storyourself. Helps leaders across Europe find their own voice.
Hugo Burger. A nature lover through and through. Forest bathing guide, team coach, and trainer. Hugo and I run Bosbaden Amsterdam together.
Petra de Bruijn. Perhaps the best leadership coach in the Netherlands. Founder of PDBC. Petra embodies authenticity in leadership.
Tessa Harts. Psychologist, coach, and owner of Psychologie van het Lichaam. Highly skilled in observation, natural wisdom, and rituals.
Geraldine Lorijn. A fantastic designer with a passion for storytelling, sustainability, and (as an educator) the development of young people.
Let's chat
Do you have a challenge you can't quite crack? Wondering if our approach is a good fit for you? Or are you just curious?
Send a message or give me a call. A good conversation starts right here.
info@natuurlijkeorganisatie.nl
Phone
+31 6 414 33 862
Location
Amsterdam is my home, and I can go anywhere.