The majority of an adult’s day is spent at work – seriously. Just take a look at these figures: Mexicans are at the top of the list clocking in 2,317 hours a year, Korea is not so far behind with 2,092 hours, and Americans toil away for 1,790 annual hours. That is a big chunk of time to be at your job, so how about making those hours a bit more enjoyable? Here are five surefire ways to make your working environment a happy place.
1. BRING YOUR PET TO WORK
A furry creature can insert a bit of levity and fun to any office situation.
SCIENTIFIC PROOF: Animals, dogs in particular, are known for their therapeutic abilities and giving little Rover a pat on the head releases oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and affection.
TAKE IT A STEP FURTHER: Make a pet visit a weekly or monthly event at the office with workers alternating who brings in their furry friends.
2. EAT LUNCH WITH YOUR COLLEAGUES
You are swamped with work and thinking of just scarfing down your lunch at your desk - but stop!
SCIENTIFIC PROOF: Eating lunch at your desk can limit creativity and increase stress.
TAKE IT A STEP FURTHER: Rally some of your coworkers and make it a point to dine together at least once a week. You might want to change your environment and step out of the office and eat at a restaurant. Go the extra mile and talk about topics that don’t relate to work.
3. GREEN UP YOUR OFFICE
Insert a bit of nature into your working space, you’ll benefit from some extra O2 and it sure looks darn pretty.
SCIENTIFIC PROOF: Placing a plant on your desk at work increases productivity.
TAKE IT A STEP FURTHER: Plant some fresh herbs or indoor veggies at the office that everyone at work can use to spice up their lunches – while you all eat together!
4. KEEP A SNACK STASH
If you have just finished a hearty lunch or are in need of a midday pick-me-up, snacking on a bit of sweet can definitely do the trick.
SCIENTIFIC PROOF: When dipping your hand into the sweet drawer, go for dark chocolate as it’s a potent antioxidant and makes for a healthy choice. If you need more convincing, here are 6 reasons why it’s actually good for you.
TAKE IT A STEP FURTHER: Make a rotation and have colleagues bring in a different delicious treat each week.
5. GET SOME FRESH AIR
Instead of staring at your computer screen and watching that YouTube video for the fourth time, take a breather outside.
SCIENTIFIC PROOF: Raising your heart rate - even for a few minutes – encourages the release of feel-good endorphins, and fresh air clears the mind and helps you better concentrate.
TAKE IT A STEP FURTHER: Schedule a daily outdoor break with some officemates and make a point to go outside at least once a day