National Have Fun at Work Day

What better way to end a busy work week than with a day dedicated to having fun at the office? Today is National ‘Have Fun at Work’ Day, so put your to-do list aside and carve out a few hours to unwind, bond, and enjoy some quality time with your co-workers, after all, it is Friday!

The traditional “work is not supposed to be fun, that’s why it’s called work” mindset, in my opinion, gets it all wrong. The workplace should definitely integrate some fun into its environment, in fact, studies have shown that doing so helps workers feel more satisfied with their job and can lead to reduced stress levels, increased productivity and task performance, raise motivation levels, and boost team spirit. It seems like a win-win!

Bringing more fun into the workplace may also help address the alarming surge in employee burnout. A 2018 Gallup study revealed that out of 7,500 full-time employees, 23% reported experiencing feelings of burnout at work ‘very often or always,’ with 44% reportedly feeling burned out sometimes. This translates into roughly two-thirds of full-time workers experiencing burnout on the job. What can we do to help tackle these issues?

Taking the time to give praise to your co-workers and engage in some fun office activities is one way to help foster a more positive workplace culture. Here are a few ways how:

• Potluck Office Parties  (And not just for the Holidays!)

Sometimes the best way to get through a packed week is with the promise of yummy food and drinks at the end of it. Whether it’s in a conference room or the common area, be sure to take some time to cheers to the week’s accomplishments! If it’s not too challenging, co-workers can bring their favorite childhood dish as a way to get to know each other better and spark some interesting conversations.  

• Or… Head to Happy Hour

Ditch the office vibe and pick a fun bar or restaurant with good happy hour deals. This is a great way to get to know each other outside the workplace and to have some good fun and laughs. Some companies even designate a night per week to head to a spot after office-hours. Check to see if some nearby bars host trivia nights to get some energetic team bonding in too!

• Start a Company Sports Team

Whether it be a bowling team or softball league, a little competition can go a long way. Building great teamwork (and muscle!) outside the office will bring positive team spirit into the office, plus it’s a great way to get some exercise into your workweek.

• Play Office Games

Who says musical chairs is just for kids? Line up the office chairs, blast some tunes and see who’s the musical chair master, or pair up (and clear the way!) for a race with the ever-so-fun rolling office chairs. For less active options, partake in a game of cards, play a fun game of charades, or ‘two truths and a lie’!

• Team Nature Walks

Walking outside and breathing in fresh air is a great way to relieve stress while getting your daily doses of sunlight and nature. While finding green spots may be difficult those working in big cities like NYC, check to see if there’s a park nearby the team can take a quick stroll through or even have a picnic in – it’s a great midday break that will leave everyone feeling refreshed and ready to conquer the rest of the day.

How will your office celebrate today? Whatever you choose, we’re sure it will be loads of fun!