Inspiring Workplaces: Finding the Funny During Challenging Times

Published: Wed, 03/18/20

Humor at Work

ISSUE 814 - Mar. 18, 2020


			Finding the Funny During Challenging Times

	So...anything new happening in your world? Okay, so once again I'm going to interrupt our regularly scheduled programming just to check in with you and offer any support I can. And incidentally, thank you for the kind and supportive messages that so many of you sent my way last week - it means the world to me! 1. More of you are working from home, so it's important to make the most of video-conferencing technology and good old-fashioned phone lines to stay connected with each other. Be extra vigilant about reaching out to people working virtually from their homes - even if it's just to check in! We need to physically isolate, not socially! Schedule regular updates for everyone. For ideas on keeping colleagues engaged and connected when they're working remotely, check out Engaging Virtual/Remote Employees. 2. As difficult as it can be we need to remember that we all have the power to choose our reactions in these rapidly changing circumstances, including making the choice to "find the funny" in difficult situations, choosing to believe the best in one another, and choosing hope over fear. A proven way to keep your spirits up is to start a gratitude journal with your family and have everyone write down 3 things, no matter how small, they are grateful for at the end of each day. 3. One of the best cures for a feeling of hopelessness is to get involved in a volunteer initiative in your local community. There's no shortage of areas where people are going to need some sort of support, even if it's just with your immediate neighbors...from a safe distance of course! 4. I have no idea if anyone's head is even here or not, but I'll make the offer: I'm hosting a free virtual presentation next Tuesday, March 24th at 11:00 am MST/1:00 pm EST: Leading and Yes, Even Laughing During Turbulent Times. 5. Many of you have reached out about my online Culture Leadership Program asking for an extension on the early bird rate given the current state of affairs, so of course, we are extending the early bird launch rate through until the end of September. Lastly, please reach out if there is anything I can do to be of service to you or your team during this challenging time! We are all in this together...alone...or alone...together! And together, alone, we will get through it!

		Mike's Fun at Work Tip

You may have seen the photo of employees at a vet clinic with a dog sitting in front them, where the dog is the only one NOT wearing a protective head cone as a public service reminder to not touch our faces! My challenge to you is this: What creative, fun thing can you do to bring some positive humor or a positive message to your colleagues, clients or family members right now?
		Quote of the Week

"Humor is like a diaper change - it makes you comfortable for a while." M. Dale Baughman
		It's a Wacky World

The Puyallup Police Department in Washington State is keeping a sense of humor throughout all this. They issued the following statement on their Facebook page: Due to local cases of #COVID-19, PPD is asking all criminal activities and nefarious behavior to cease. We appreciate your anticipated cooperation in halting crime & thank all the criminals in advance. We will certainly let you know when you can resume your normal criminal behavior. Until then.... #washyourhands & #behaveyourself

Home Alone!

A lifetime ago I wrote a regular humor column for a Home Office Magazine about the joys and pitfalls of working out of your home. Many of you may now be working from home for the first time, so if you need a few chuckles and a bit of a distraction, please hop on over to Home Alone! for all the articles.

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