Humour in the workplace increases productivity
Depression and anxiety are some of the largest challenges in our time. In today’s fast-paced, competitive world, it can sometimes feel as though there simply is no time left for laughter.
Yet, not making the effort to incorporate humour into our daily routines actually hurts our chances of achieving our goals.
A study conducted in 2016 revealed that humour promotes optimism and creativity while reducing stress, depression and anxiety in the workplace, and this study does not stand alone. There are many others that echo its findings.
Sadly, while the benefits of humour at work are well-supported by research, too few corporates take the time to create an atmosphere that is conducive to fun in the workplace.
Co-founder of the 8th Floor Improv Comedy Group, Andrew Tarvin, delivered a popular TED Talk on this issue back in 2014 that explained how most employees do not attempt humour at the office because there is an implicit assumption that their superiors would not approve of this behaviour. Therefore, in order for humour and fun to flourish within an organisation, these values often need to be conveyed to the rest of the organisation by those in charge.
Adrian Goslett, from RE/MAX, said that in 2003, they developed their own formula with the participation of their Broker/Owners, associates, and regional and international affiliates.
“This formula would be the DNA of the RE/MAX organisation used as a tool to assist in the way that we do business and conduct ourselves. Within this formula, fun is reserved as the heading of one of fourteen other principles.”
He said that this category exists because those who are happy, fulfilled and passionate about what they do are most likely to deliver the best results. They are also encouraged to socialise with their colleagues and to develop friendships at work.
