Most people actively seek ways to improve their lives. They may want to build healthy habits quickly or enhance their work environment. In terms of the latter, offices can often be depressing places. Fortunately, there are a few simple changes you can make that can transform your work premises. In this article, we’ll discuss some ideas on how to make your office more cheerful and fun.
1. Add A Water Feature
The sight and sound of moving water can help to soothe and relax us. This is why adding a water feature to your office space could boost employee morale and create a more pleasant working environment. There are many different types of water features that you could choose from, depending on the size and layout of your office space. For example, you could install a small fountain in the reception area or break room, or go for something bigger like an indoor waterfall.
Not only will these features add some visual interest to your office, but they can also help to mask any unwanted noise from outside or within the building. The internet can also direct you to large outdoor fountains for your business, whether it’s a wall fountain, pond fountain or one with lion pedestals. You can also buy three or four tier versions and fountains made of cast stone or concrete.
2. Play Music In The Background
If you’re able to do this at a low volume, it can really help to set the tone for your office and make it feel more relaxed and inviting. It’s a great way to create a positive atmosphere that’ll make everyone happy. There are lots of benefits to playing music in the workplace, including:
- It can boost productivity
- It can reduce stress levels
- It can increase creativity
- It can promote team bonding
You could use a computer, radio or standalone speakers for streaming music. As for style, it depends on what type of atmosphere you’re going for and what your employees prefer. You could try playing classical music, ambient music, gentle jazz or something more upbeat. If you have lots of employees with different musical tastes, create a playlist with a variety of songs to please everyone.
3. Add Some Office Plants
Adding some greenery to your office is a great way to make it feel more welcoming and relaxing. It can introduce some extra life and color to your workplace, and make it feel more homely. Plants can help improve the indoor air quality by filtering out toxins and pollutants. They can also boost your mood and increase productivity.
Be sure to do your research upfront so that you choose plants that’ll thrive in the environment you have. And don’t forget to keep them watered! Some good examples of office plants are aloe vera, bamboo, and spider plants. Some other examples include:
- Snake plants
- Peace lilies
- Pothos
- Dracaena
- Fiddle leaf figs
- Rubber plants
4. Hang Up Some Fun Artwork Or Photos
This could be anything from screenshots of funny memes to pictures of you and your coworkers outside of work. You could use anything from goofy family photos to posters of favorite TV shows or movies. Anything that brings a smile to peoples’ faces can help make the office feel more like a home away from home.
If you have a more serious workplace, you can still find ways to lighten the mood with your décor choices. For example, you might choose art that makes people smile or that inspires positive thinking.
5. Decorate For Holidays And Special Occasions
Even putting up a few streamers or balloons can help boost morale. Birthday celebrations make sure everyone feels appreciated on their special day. So why not do something extra special, like ordering in cake or getting them a small gift? When Christmas approaches, go all out with the decorations. It’ll get everyone in the festive spirit and looking forward to the time off. You could even host an office-wide decorating contest.
Also decorate for any other holidays that are important to your team members. This shows that you’re respectful of their culture and traditions, and it helps create a more diverse and inclusive environment. Some other holidays you could decorate for include Hanukkah, Easter, Ramadan, Diwali, and Chinese New Year.
6. Have Regular Social Events
This doesn’t have to be anything big or expensive – just something to give everyone a chance to relax and chat with their colleagues outside of work hours. You could organize fun activities like bowling, ice skating or mini-golf, or have a group meal where the costs are subsidized. Some other suggestions include:
- having a monthly potluck lunch
- having regular happy hours
- having an annual company picnic
- having a Christmas dinner/dance
The benefits include improved communication and teamwork, and a chance to get to know your colleagues better. Regular social events can also boost morale and employee engagement, and reduce staff turnover.
7. Encourage Breaks
Taking regular breaks makes people more productive. It gives them a chance to step away from their work and clear their heads, so when they return they’re refreshed and ready to tackle whatever’s in front of them. Also, make sure people use up their holiday entitlements and don’t work excessive hours.
A breakout area is a designated space where people can go to relax and take a few minutes for themselves. This can be anything from a comfy couch or chairs to a table with games or books. Breakout areas should be away from people’s desks, so they can really take a break from work and not feel like they’re still on the clock. If you can, include a sink, fridge, microwave and drinks (e.g. a water dispenser or coffee machine).
These have been some top tips on how to ensure your staff enjoy themselves while they work. In return, there’ll be fewer absences and resignations, and people will be prepared to do the extra mile. Whilst they have fun and enjoy the new office environment, your colleagues will be busy making your company a continuing success.
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