We spend nearly a third of our life at work, so if we aren’t having any fun there, it’s probably feeling a lot like...work. Yes, of course, we all want to give off the impression we take our role seriously, but there are some serious benefits to building some fun into your workday. Not only has it been proven to reduce stress, but it also helps in creating deeper connections with your co-workers and supporting a healthier culture. Who doesn’t want some of that?
So what actually makes work fun? It’s certainly not one size fits all. Whether your office throws epic Halloween parties, hosts Thirsty Thursdays or runs amazing trivia competitions, defining “fun” should be left up to what appeals to the masses. In other words, you need to know your team and office well and choose wisely. This doesn’t mean every environment needs to invest in something like the famous Google slide to be recognized as embracing a fun atmosphere. Startups have made creating fun environments a necessity - in addition to excellent technology, talented people and tons of room for growth. Is your office squad in need a little more jolly? Read on for a few ideas to inspire.
START WITH YOUR WORKSPACE
Many people enjoy adding some firsthand details to their personal work space to make it feel a little more “them.” However, try upping the ante with a team theme to bring everyone a little closer together. Challenge yourselves with work appropriate fun like celebrity doppelgangers side by side photos, or decorations that reflect your team’s personality. It doesn’t matter what it is; you are just building camaraderie by bringing the team together to display a little bit of your playful sides.
GET OUT FROM BEHIND YOUR DESK
Ok, we are all busy. But are you seriously so busy you need to eat your lunch at your desk every day? Aside from being horrible for you, you are missing a prime opportunity to get out with your work posse and enjoy some of the perks (ping pong, anyone?) your company has to offer or even take a quick walk for a Starbucks or taco run. Of course, I’m not suggesting that weaving these little breaks in is going to add fun like going to a comedy show might, but taking a few minutes out of a crazy day to enjoy the people around you is a huge perk many of us don’t take enough advantage of.
SQUAD GOALS
Numerous studies have been conducted about the benefits of having friends at work. Who wouldn’t love to be even more productive and engaged because you were able to invest a bit of time cultivating a fun work squad? Of course, it’s wonderful to have a handful of people you can count on when you are having a rough day. It’s also pretty fantastic to connect with others you can laugh with, challenge you, and plain make work a whole lot more fun on a daily basis.
GET YOUR LEADERS INVOLVED
Don’t assume just that because she’s your boss means she doesn’t want in on the good time. Leaders, just like individual contributors and everyone in between, enjoy letting off some steam as well. Sharing a giggle with those senior leaders doesn’t just break down barriers; it can strengthen relationships too. So go ahead: challenge your boss to a game of foosball, or invite them to cocktails after work with your team. You might be surprised that you all have a good time together.
Many of us entered the workforce subscribing to the conventional wisdom that work is supposed to be work, and if you attempt to have fun at work, you might be perceived as a slacker. Nonsense! Finding humor at work helps you build strong relationships, enhances engagement and fosters creativity. All that contributes to better productivity. So go ahead...while you’re working your butt off today, find some time to LOL with your co-workers. You will all benefit.
Christina Luconi is Chief People Officer for Rapid7. Follow her on Twitter: @peopleinnovator