Having fun at work not only makes for a more fulfilling day but it also improves mental health and productivity. One study shows that about 10% of employees say they very frequently have fun while working and another 17% say they frequently have fun at work. They most enjoy collaborating with teammates (54%), learning something new (48%) and working on creative projects (46%).

Want to create more pockets of fun in your workday? Keep reading. In this issue of PromoPro Daily, we share some tips from writer Shameika Rhymes.  

1. Collaborate with your co-workers. Working with other people is one of the best ways to spark fun on the job. It doesn’t matter if you’re brainstorming together or sharing feedback, collaborating fosters a sense of connection and accomplishment. Remote workers can reap the benefits, too, whether it’s through Slack chats or co-working sessions. Rhymes says it’s important to be intentional about collaboration. Schedule a time for coffee with a co-worker or simply sit together to work on your own projects.

2. Learn something new. According to Rhymes, learning is a key driver of joy at work. If you’re thinking about taking the next step in your certification journey, go for it. Learning is one of the best ways to feel accomplished and energized. Even without formal programs, you can embrace learning and development. Rhymes suggests volunteering for projects that force you to step outside your comfort zone. This kind of hands-on learning can bring a sense of fulfillment.

3. Be creative. Working in the promo industry means you have ample opportunities to flex your creativity. Think about how you could infuse more creativity into your role. Maybe you could be creative with your sales presentations or internal newsletters. Creativity, Rhymes says, is all about problem-solving, looking at tasks differently and thinking outside the box. 

4. Take a break. You’re not designed to work 8 hours without stopping. Instead, commit to fully taking a break to recharge your energy and clear your mind. You can reap the rewards in just 10 minutes, whether you take a short walk around your office building or do a mini yoga session at lunch. 

If you want to bring more fun into your workday, try some of the ideas above. Commit to learning something new with a work friend or even take a short walk after your lunch break. Small actions can go a long way in shifting your mindset and making your work even more enjoyable.

Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: Shameika Rhymes is a North Carolina-based writer who contributes to outlets including InHerSight, USA Today and others.