MAKE WORK FUN
Are you having fun at work?
Having fun at work, is that allowed? Appropriate? Absolutely! We spend so much time in our place of employment so why shouldn't it be a place where we can have a laugh and enjoy ourselves?
Of course being theprofessionals that we are we know that we are hired to complete tasks and contribute to the overall success of the organisation. However, that can only be made easier if we like where we are and who we work with. Unfortunately we do not always (if ever!) get the opportunity to choose our office location and layout but we can influence the way it looks, works and feels. Are you able to move the furniture around to make the most of a view or sunlight? Can cupboards be installed instead of shelving to hide messy paperwork? If major changes cannot be made, improve the aesthetics. Bring in a green leafy plant from home, a personalised mug or photos of family and friends – even make one a screen saver on your computer! These edi- tions, although small, reflect who you are. It is also important to remember to be ergonomically
correct. Does your chair provide enough back support and do your feet sit flat on the ground when seated? Is your desk the correct height and what about your computer screen – too close, too far away? There are many ergonom- ic aids on the market that help with the use of a mouse to prevent or minimise RSI and phone headsets are a won- derful idea if you are required to be on the phone for long periods. As much as we love our computers, especially when they work, we tend to spend far too much time look- ing intently at the screen. It is recommended we take reg- ular breaks that include getting out of your chair and mov- ing around and equally as important, change the range of your eyesight. Make a conscious effort to focus on objects at varying distances, go for a walk if you can.
These days it seems we are bombarded with informa- tion on generational gaps, multi-cultural diversities, poli- cies and procedures. How can anyone have fun with all that we need to consider? Be aware and acknowledge there are people from all sorts of backgrounds, ages and stages of life and that each person has been hired for a certain skill set and has unique knowledge and experiences to draw upon. Respecting colleagues and being open to new opinions only enhances the work environment. Laughter is another great sharing and relaxing experi-
ence. For the most part, sharing a laugh or joke with a col- league at the appropriate time adds to having a great day. I know myself, if I have had a good laugh with my office bud- dies I am happier, more productive and the day goes by even quicker! Certainly we must be mindful of what topics are appropriate for the workplace and be careful of who we pass on any of those 'joke emails' to – if at all. Another aspect of having fun at work is your work/life
balance – as strange as it may seem! We already spend a fair chunk of our week at work so if you tip the scales too far in favour of work, you reduce the amount of 'you' time which should be spent rejuvenating and enjoying yourself away from the daily grind. If this balance is not right for long periods, going to work is not going to be that much fun. I do hope you enjoy where and with whom you work. If
not, you may need to assess your reasons for working: money, security, passion? A change of employment may be what's required. We all should look forward to going to work each day! E
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