Unlocking the Fun Factor at Work: Is it Possible?

Mandatory fun at work! Sounds like an oxymoron, doesn't it? Well, it might just be the perfect paradox. In recent years, especially with the challenges of remote work and the occasional return to the office, the definition of "fun" at work varies across different groups of people. Let's delve into this concept a bit more broadly.

Enthusiasts vs. Obligatory Participants

Firstly, there are those employees who genuinely relish participating in these activities. They dress up for the occasion, radiate team spirit, and transform the event into a cheerful, easy going activity for everyone. These enthusiastic individuals not only enjoy themselves but also contribute to making the experience enjoyable for others.

On the flip side, there's the group that attends because they must, akin to students attending lectures for the sake of attendance. Disengagement may stem from burnout or the desire to utilize the time for focused tasks rather than participating in workplace games.

The Busy Bee Dilemma

Another category comprises employees who perceive themselves as too busy for "fun activities." As described in the book Make Time by Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky, these high performers and mid-managers consider busyness a badge of honour. For them, a quiet coffee moment may outweigh a tug-of-war match with a cross-functional team.

Navigating Personal Experiences

In my view, we've all been there—whether attending due to a leader's request, joining for the tempting refreshments, or occasionally skipping for personal reasons. I've played both roles, from the enthusiastic participant hosting a hackathon to the one choosing to invest energy in a project task.

Work means different things to different people, evolving with generations, company culture, and individual perspectives. Colleagues aren't family, and that's precisely why nothing should be mandatory.

Your Team as Players in a Season

Consider your colleagues as players on a high-performing team. Success requires more than just playing; it involves understanding motivations, navigating ups and downs, and fostering a cohesive environment. Fun at work can be the secret sauce to put everyone at ease, akin to finding your 'Ted Lasso' in a game of darts.

Fun is as real as you can make it!

A few months ago, I was invited to a summit to break the ice between speaker slots. The participants were exhausted from international travel, evident in their faces. With a simple game of rearranging themselves into a 'number train,' the energy skyrocketed. Fun can be a powerful tool, just like learning—everyone likes it, but we need to show rather than tell.

Fun: Just in Time vs. Just in Case

As a trainer, I've found that fun needs to be "just in time" rather than "just in case." Understanding the audience and tailoring activities to put them at ease is crucial. In our classroom training, a quick game like 'higher or lower' after a break rejuvenates the group, preparing them for focused learning.

In conclusion, does mandatory fun at work help? Well, if it's just in time, it might very well be the catalyst for a more energized and engaged team. However, if it's just in case, the chances of success are probably not as high. Embracing the right balance of fun can turn the workplace into a vibrant, collaborative space where everyone looks forward to both work and play.