Why we need to find the fun in work

Some of us are lucky enough to have a job that we love. Others have jobs because quite frankly they pay the bills. Inevitably though, there comes a point when stress and worries of the job eclipse all the reasons we do it. However, with it being April 1st I thought it would be the perfect time to look at why we need to find the fun in our work. Here is some of what I’ve come up with.

It can’t always be serious

Some of us have very high pressure jobs; others have to make decisions that have ramifications for hundreds of people. To live in an environment like that takes a toll on one’s mental health so finding a moment to laugh, smile or have a joke is important. It provides you with breathing room and temporarily takes your mind off the situation.

I can testify to this personally. I’ve worked in tourism and in summer and at certain points in the year the pace is relentless. I’ve seen people on long stretches; with long hours gradually get grumpy or irritable over time. Then something amazing happens. It may be stupid, silly or a well-timed joke, but instantly their mood is lifted. I have lost count of the times my colleagues or I have done something to help galvanise one another. All I can say is that it has given that much needed boost.

It creates bonds

This leads on from the previous point. The times I have spent laughing with a colleague has bonded us for life. On more than one occasion something has happened and it has escalated to make us laugh even harder. It’s with those people that I have some of the strongest friendships.

Having friends like that at work makes the harder days easier. You can rely on one another to get through a tough shift or rough patch. As a result, you may find that your team is able to function better. They work more cohesively since they are working from some shared experiences.

Working together

Fun makes it easier to bear

If you find yourself in a job you aren’t particularly passionate about, finding the fun will make it easier. Now I’m not promoting anything unprofessional or could interrupt the work flow. Try to look at it from a new angle. Maybe see how a certain thing could liven up your day, try to gamify others to track your progress. There are so many ways to help you find the fun in your work. 

Obviously it’s not a good idea to do anything that will make your job harder for yourself or someone else. I do hope that I was able to point you in a positive direction this April first. So go out there and find fun and enjoyment in your work!

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