Work has always been serious. Deadlines, deliverables, and deals; returns to measure; goals to reach. Never enough time or resources. Is it any wonder we believe work is the antithesis of play?
On top of this, COVID-19 has disrupted most of our work norms, and we are finally facing a global reckoning after centuries of systemic racism.
Are there appropriate ways to lighten up our work lives? Is it okay to have fun, too? The simple answer is YES! Playfulness, fun, spontaneity, and silliness are all attributes that contribute to organizational success, according to research from years of study.
It starts with the individual. Individual playfulness has a positive impact on creativity and innovation within an organization. The fun is contagious, and playful individuals can help create a workplace with energy, vigor, and joy. Playful organizations are even more powerful than isolated playful individuals. Playful organizations see benefits in efficiency, creativity and innovation.
To create a playful organization, we need more playful leaders. Evidence shows that leaders who allow themselves to be vulnerable are more likable by their team and viewed as stronger leaders. Our research shows that there is a vulnerability gap between what leaders believe they are revealing and what team members are seeing. Leaders need to let down their guard, and an easy way to do that is to play.
Compassionate leaders recognize that playfulness has its limits. Humor must never target others (even competitors) or come at the expense of other individuals or groups. The benefits of playfulness partly derive from the sense of connection created in the workplace, so divisive humor won’t yield the established benefits. Self-deprecating humor, on the other hand, is acceptable, and will make you more human and vulnerable.
Extending the idea that the benefit of playfulness comes from its uniting impact, games should not be overly competitive. Introduce activities for fun, games, cooperation, and shared experience. This will help ensure that overly competitive colleagues do not stamp out the beneficial attributes of play.
Play is clearly not the opposite of work. Playfulness at work makes the job easier, more productive, and more innovative. So, don’t hesitate to get to your desk and get down to play.
Photo by Husna Miskandar on Unsplash.