IS FUN THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS IN THE WORK PLACE?

The word “fun” isn’t exactly synonymous with work these days. But after recently listening to a TED Talk by science journalist Catherine Price, I got thinking that maybe it’s time for us to have more fun not only in our personal lives but in the workplace too.

“Fun” plays an essential role when it comes to your health and happiness, but so many of us have forgotten what it is and how to have it. Not to be confused with activities, fun is all about playfulness, flow and connection. And when you throw in a global pandemic that’s changed how we work and relate to one another, it’s no wonder we’re struggling to connect with our co-workers and aren’t having fun at work.

I remember my mother telling me that I should do what I love for a living because then work won’t feel like work, but even though I love what I do, work very much feels like work right now.

Zoom fatigue is real, creativity is dwindling, and the only “connecting” we’re doing is clicking a button to join a virtual meeting. As much as I love the flexibility that comes with working from home, I miss the days when I could brainstorm with colleagues in person, laugh together and end the day feeling inspired.

After being forced to work in isolation for so long, perhaps now is the time to stop living in our comfort zones and start seeking out opportunities that will eradicate the “rut” many of us are in.

The more “fun” we have, the more creative we’ll be, and the better the work we produce will be. If the past two years have taught us anything, it’s just how important human connection is… and so this is me, committing to “connect” more and find the fun, wherever it may be ;)