Having Fun at work

What do you like to do for fun?  

I love to hike. I really love hiking with a good friend and spending that time catching up. 
 
I love to read, listen to some great music, or even a great audiobook. I also love the opportunity to learn something new and take the time to figure something out on my own.  

We all like different things and the definition of fun may vary for each of us. And most people enjoy and benefit from setting time aside in our busy schedules to have a good time.  

But, what do you do for fun at work? Yes, I said, "at work".   

When you think of the list of priorities in your workplace, having fun may be low on that list or even missing altogether.  
And yet, it plays an important role in teams and organizations.

Having fun at work boosts morale, reduces stress, and increases creativity. It also helps create connections, build trust and strengthen relationships, all of which support the development of a high-performing team.   

So, what have you done for fun at work?  

I’ve heard many examples from clients over the years - from team building activities, happy hour with the team after work, painting classes, and more.  

People seem to enjoy spending time together and getting to know each other in a non-work-related setting. They form stronger connections and build trust which positively impacts their work together.  

How might this be useful to you and your team?   

Many clients tell me that in the past, making connections with co-workers felt easier. There were opportunities to have informal conversations by grabbing lunch or a coffee with a colleague, running into someone in the elevator, or chatting at the famous "water cooler".   

Those informal opportunities to connect vanished for those who abruptly shifted to working remotely.   

Since the start of the pandemic, people have had to become really intentional about creating connections and strengthening relationships within their teams.   

How do you look at having fun together and creating that personal connection? And what are some of the ways that you have found that have worked for your group?   
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I look forward to hearing your ideas.