Is Your Office a Place Where Fun Goes to Die?

Are you one of those people who think you’re supposed to have fun only when you’re not working? If so, you’re in for some long, monotonous days at the office. And since work is where you spend the majority of your time, all those boring days can really add up.

Having fun and working shouldn’t be regarded as mutually exclusive concepts. In fact, it’s not hard to see how a lack of enjoyment in the workplace can adversely affect both creativity and productivity. It also can make you feel less than enthusiastic about getting up and going to your job each day: There is a higher rate of absenteeism and tardiness among employees who feel bored at work.

Simply put, having a bit of fun at work is energizing and makes people look forward to coming to the office. If you feel your work life is a little on the dull side, the following tips can help liven things up:

• Don’t bury yourself in your work. Sure you’re busier than ever, but don’t let that prevent you from spending some of your day maintaining bonds with your colleagues. Besides initiating conversations in the hallway or break room, invite coworkers to lunch or coffee to keep up with them on a personal level. Having a sense of camaraderie with people makes working with them much more enjoyable.

• Celebrate achievements. Birthdays and holidays aren’t the only reasons to have an office party. Suggest treating successes such as the completion of team projects or meeting challenging objectives as special occasions and help organize celebrations for these achievements. Beyond having something to look forward to, it’s a great way to enhance teamwork in your group.

• Schedule time for ‘recess.’ Working on the same task for long periods isn’t good for your body or mind. Just a few minutes of “down time” can help you recharge and work more productively. Set aside time during the workweek for lunch breaks or brisk walks with friends.

• Don’t stand on the sidelines: Taking part in office activities is a great way to add some variety to your work life. Join the company softball team or get involved in corporate community service projects. Consider organizing one of these activities yourself if you work in an office that doesn’t already have them. You’ll not only have fun, you’ll get to know your colleagues on a whole new level.

As they say, all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Consider using some of these tips to make your time at work a little more enjoyable.