Is Work Fun?

"Above anything else, managers should worry about creating the conditions that enable people to unlock their potential and perform at the highest possible level, which is of course not possible if they are bored, alienated, or stressed."

Fun is one ingredient, but not the key to high performance. Some efforts feel overwhelming or difficult (not fun) but lead to pride and growth: eustress, not distress. I know from experience you can have fun digging a trench, building a fence, unloading a truck, or running sprints.

Play and fun are more about attitude than perks or distractions. As the Disney song recommends, whistle while you work, and any task gets done better.

Responding to Fast Company, "What science says about having fun at work."

First published on LinkedIn.