Marcel Oudejans
5 simple ways to experience a happier, more productive work experience.
Gathering a group of employees together to play games (particularly non-competitive games) is certain to encourage everyone to relax & get to know one-another better. It can be said that we learn more about a person in an hour of play than we can in a whole year of work! If feasible, team sports can be facilitated - however, the most important part of the activity should be to focus away from work-related issues & rather onto the element of play & recreation.
As simple as this activity sounds, it’s remarkably effective. By increasing your intake of water, oxygen & light, you’ll be helping your body recover from high levels of adrenalin & physical discomfort. If you are consistently in the same posture, this activity is of particular benefit as long periods of sitting is known to be detrimental to productivity. It’s advisable to make this a scheduled activity: set an alarm to ring every 90min to remind you & your colleagues to get up for a ‘comfort break’ for 15min or so.
Load a few funny videos on YouTube, gather together & just laugh as a group! Group laughter is one of the best ways to improve breathing (resulting in more oxygen to the brain), regulate hormone levels, and activate creative-thinking abilities. Even the act of taking a 15min break away from focusing on your urgent tasks is often enough to help motivate you when you return to work!
It has become increasingly common for executives to schedule some ‘me time’ in the middle of their day. They report that a daily 20min rest leaves them revitalised, reinvigorated & ready to tackle the rest of their day. Simply find a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed, put your phone on silent, find a relaxing position & close your eyes. It’s not necessary to fall asleep; you should, however, try to not to think about any pressing matters. Allowing your body to rest & relax in this way lowers stress-levels, improves your problem-solving abilities & promotes a ‘good night’s sleep’.
A short positive conversation with your partner, friend or family member can put your day into perspective. This conversation should intentionally be encouraging & put you into a good mood. Think carefully about the purpose of the conversation before you initiate it: should it result in an argument, it would be counter-productive. Rather focus on letting the other person know that you appreciate & love them: this simple act has the double-result of making you both feel good! Take a moment to pick up your cellphone, take a walk outside & call someone you like & trust. On your return, you’ll find yourself ready to work on your next challenge.
Marcel Oudejans is a full-time performing artist and registered Professional Speaker with the Professional Speakers Association of South Africa. He focuses on the use of performance art, comedy and...
