What would make you jump out of bed every morning and go to work? Or what do you think would make your employees (or those who report to you) jump out of bed to come to work? Really, take 10 minutes to brainstorm.
What did you come up with? Like-minded people, a fun and supportive environment, knowing your work had a higher purpose, you were able to be creative, you had a feeling of value to the organization, management recognized your hard work, you were known as a name verses an employee number.
In my optimistic world, what if every workplace had:
A culture that appreciated all team members equally;
An employee-friendly environment;
An employee-focused culture; and ...
All employees were recognized as the greatest asset.
Can you imagine all the wonderful things that could happen and would be accomplished if every person was recognized, encouraged, and applauded for all the great things he/she did?!?
This week's article focuses on occupational wellness. A few questions to ask yourself if you are happy and well at your job are the following:
Do you find your work satisfying? Do you have a balance between your work and leisure time? Do you enjoy new responsibilities and look forward to achieving better results?
Your attitudes about your work can greatly affect your job performance and interactions with coworkers. Striving toward occupational wellness will help to give you personal satisfaction and allow you to find enrichment in your life through work.
Recently, I have read a few articles on workplace happiness, increasing productivity, and morale in the workplace. Self magazine provides a few things to consider to see if you are in your "dream job."
1. Does your supervisor/colleagues generally acknowledge your abilities and contributions?
2. Your supervisor listens to your suggestions and if possible, acts on them.
3. You are encouraged to take on new things and stretch yourself.
4. You are able to have a balanced life outside work, and you don't need to keep it a secret.
Did you answer all "yeses"? Me, too! Ha Ha Ð there is nothing like adding a little humor to your reading.
Speaking of humor, the second article I came across on occupational wellness dealt with having fun at the workplace and how that can increase productivity and morale. Now, how rad would that be if you were allowed and encouraged 30 minutes of "play time" per day? Employers you can help!
Create a space for fun, so those having fun are not interrupting others who must make deadlines.
Oh the fun you can have with balloons, tennis balls and string! How about a little teambuilding activity? Check out: http://wilderdom.com/games/index2.html.
Organize activities during breaks.
It does not take much to create fun. And just think of the change it could generate. Morale will grow ... and people will start to jump out of bed and go to work.
• Laura Brownlee is a Carson City resident and works with the National Wellness Institute. She can be reached at editor@nevadaappeal.com.