| Humor at Work |
ISSUE 580 - Apr. 29, 2015 |
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In Praise of Praise |
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I know, I know...I've said it hundreds of times before, but I'm going to keep saying it because it's just too darn important - work matters! It's why you're getting a paycheck! But work isn't, hopefully, just about the paycheck. If you want to boost workplace happiness levels (and trust me, you do), lower stress, and drive innovation in your workplace then you need to get serious about recognizing, celebrating and appreciating each other. And at an individual level, if YOU want to feel happier at work, then start recognizing other people more often since genuinely thanking other people has been shown to boost our own level of happiness. Here are some more thoughts on the science of recognition from the book, The Best Place to Work, by Ron Friedman:
- Studies show that a regular pat on the back can function like a shot in the arm: Employees who feel more appreciated tend to experience less stress, sleep better, and recuperate more quickly from illness.
- Research suggests that being ignored can be more psychologically damaging than being treated poorly!
- Recognizing a desired behavior is more effective than recognizing the person.
- Public recognition tends to be far more powerful than private praise.
- Pursuing long term goals makes us feel happier and more fulfilled than when we pursue short term goals.
- Learning is inherently rewarding: Studies show that acquiring new information boosts dopamine level, which improves our mood and heightens our interest in work-related activities. Investing in training opportunities, encouraging employees to take courses and attend conferences, and offering reading budgets can all help create a growth mindset at work. When learning becomes routine, people tend to see patterns more often, make novel connections, and think more creatively.
So what are you waiting for? Start a recognition epidemic in your workplace - you can always thank me later.
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Mike's Fun at Work Tip |
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A simple meeting icebreaker that always generates some laughter is to ask everyone to describe the worse job they ever had. It can also be instructive as people are often reminded of what NOT to do in their current workplace! (So while we're on it, what IS the worse job you've ever had, and why? Drop me a line at mike@mikekerr.com)
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Quote of the Week |
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"The future of great workplaces lies in helping employees fuse their personal and professional lives in ways that position them to deliver their best work." Ron Friedman, The Best Place to Work
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It's a Wacky World |
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Better break out your Fun Dance moves - it's International Dance Day! And tomorrow is Poem In Your Pocket Day, so be prepared for a little impromptu verse.
Friday is the beginning of May - official Smile Month! Here are a few daily theme days that ought to make you smile:
May 1: Batman Day
May 2: Naked Gardening Day
May 3: World Laughter Day
May 5: Cartoonists Day
May 8: No Socks Day
May 11: Eat What You Want Day
May 12: Limerick Day
May 14: Dance Like a Chicken Day
May 23: Polka Day
May 24: Nerd Pride Day
May 29: Put a Pillow on Your Fridge Day
For the complete list, cruise over to Wacky May Theme Days.
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The Humor Advantage now available as an e-book from our store, on Kobo, and Kindle!
Mike's latest book, The Humor Advantage, is getting rave reviews: "This book is your strategic plan for creating an exceptional workplace - do yourself a favor and buy one copy for yourself...and another for your boss!" James Robbins, Author of Nine Minutes on Monday
Phenomenal pricing on bulk orders: The Humor Advantage
Cost-Savings to Book Mike to Energize Your Workplace!
We`re offering an outrageous 50% discount on any talk or workshop booked between June 17-June 24 in British Columbia. info@mikekerr.com for details and more information.
30-Day Inspiring Workplaces Program
Ideal for new supervisors, veteran managers interested in shaking up their workplace, HR professionals, and anyone who gives a darn about their workplace! A 2-minute video delivered to your inbox each day for 30 days. Team discounts available!
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mike@mikekerr.com
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