👄 KISS Goodbye, Quiet Hiring, A Bit of Nostalgia, Breaking the Monotony
Chicken Soup for the Office: A Simple Act of Kindess
💬 Quotes
“People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing - that's why we recommend it daily.” — Zig Ziglar
❓ Did You Know?
For the finale of its farewell tour in New York, rock band KISS closed out the show with a performance by 3-D digital avatars of themselves.
It’s the first of what could become a regular gig, with the band reportedly in talks to send their digital renderings out on tour.
The 3-D avatars — which appear as younger versions of the band members with some new features, like a fire-breathing Gene Simmons donning dragon wings — were created by the band in collaboration with George Lucas’ visual effects company.
In the early 1900s, watches were NOT worn by men. They were seen only as jewellery for women.
👄Buzzwords
Quiet hiring - this term refers to companies that hire from their own talent pools rather than seeking outside talent. Employers are choosing to do so in a quiet manner. Instead of giving their employees a formal promotion, they’re simply expecting more of their current employees and offering quiet pay raises in exchange for the extra effort.
Fabulation - the act of inventing or relating false or fantastic tales.
🔤 Acronyms
DTC - Direct to Customer
🤔 Nostalgia
When I first started work ......
• Calculators were huge
• I could smoke in the office
• Jeans were for Fridays only
• My pay was in cash in an envelope
• Work was a career at one company
• Standing on a chair on a desk to change a light bulb was fine
• We used to get Christmas pay each year (thanks Clyde Cameron)
• There was only a thing called the pension, no such thing as super
• There were two types of people - Tippex users or White Out users
• I would have a beer with my counter lunch, mainly on Fridays - often on other days as well
👨💼 Workplace Challenges
#5 Breaking the Monotony: Strategies to Combat Boredom and Reignite Motivation at Work
In the daily grind of the professional world, the monotony of repetitive tasks can cast a shadow on the motivation and enthusiasm of employees. Whether it's the same spreadsheet, routine meetings, or a predictable to-do list, the routine nature of work can lead to boredom, diminishing job satisfaction and overall productivity. However, with mindful strategies, both individuals and organisations can transform the workplace into a dynamic environment that fuels creativity and passion.
1. Diversify Tasks and Responsibilities: One of the primary causes of workplace boredom is the monotony of performing the same tasks day in and day out. To combat this, organisations can encourage a rotation of responsibilities or project assignments. By diversifying tasks, employees gain new skills, encounter different challenges, and break free from the routine that breeds boredom.
2. Encourage Skill Development: Providing opportunities for skill development not only benefits employees but also adds a layer of excitement to their work. Encourage learning through workshops, training sessions, or even cross-functional projects that allow individuals to expand their skill set and engage with tasks beyond their usual scope.
3. Foster a Culture of Innovation: Organisations that value innovation create an environment where employees are encouraged to think creatively and contribute ideas. Introducing brainstorming sessions, innovation challenges, or even setting aside time for "creative Fridays" can infuse a sense of excitement and purpose into the workweek.
4. Establish Clear Career Paths: Employees are more likely to feel engaged and motivated when they see a clear path for career growth within the organisation. Regular performance reviews, goal-setting discussions, and opportunities for advancement contribute to a sense of progression, breaking the monotony associated with stagnant career trajectories.
5. Introduce Flexibility in Work Arrangements: Flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or flexible hours, can add variety to the work routine. Allowing employees to tailor their work environment or hours to suit their preferences fosters a sense of autonomy and can mitigate the sense of monotony.
6. Create a Positive Work Environment: The physical work environment plays a crucial role in influencing employee motivation. A well-designed, comfortable workspace with natural light, collaborative areas, and personalised touches can contribute to a positive atmosphere, reducing the monotony associated with uninspiring surroundings.
7. Implement Team Building Activities: Team building activities are not just for building rapport; they can also inject a sense of fun and camaraderie into the work setting. Whether it's a team-building retreat, a friendly competition, or regular social events, these activities can break the monotony and create a more vibrant workplace culture.
8. Encourage Breaks and Intermissions: Allowing short breaks throughout the day can provide employees with the mental respite needed to recharge. This can include short walks, relaxation spaces, or even brief social interactions. Breaks not only combat monotony but also contribute to increased focus and productivity.
Combatting boredom and reigniting motivation in the workplace requires a multifaceted approach. By incorporating these strategies, organisations can foster a dynamic and engaging work environment that nurtures the passion and creativity of its employees, ultimately leading to increased job satisfaction and improved performance.
📖 Reads (or Views)
The hidden environmental cost of your overflowing email inbox (Article)
The Power of Apologies (Podcast)
🔣 Stats You Need to Know
70% of Spotify users are too embarrassed to share their Spotify Wrapped sheets
Tesla delivered 10 of its Cybertrucks at a launch event in Austin, Texas, on December 1st. Cybertruck can tow 11,000 pounds and get 340 miles of range
The Secrets Beyond Speechwriting 101
Stand out from the crowd when you give your next presentation
🐔 Chicken Soup for the Office
In a bustling office building, amidst the constant hum of printers and the clatter of keyboards, a quiet act of kindness blossomed into a heart-warming story that touched the lives of everyone around.
It all started with Sarah, a new starter, still finding her footing in the fast-paced environment. Feeling overwhelmed and unsure, she sat at her desk, lunch untouched, tears threatening to spill.
Across the aisle, Michael, a seasoned accountant with a reputation for gruffness, noticed her distress. He approached with gentle concern, inquiring about her well-being. Sarah hesitantly confided her anxiety, feeling lost and inadequate.
Instead of dismissing her worries, Michael surprised everyone. He pulled up a chair and patiently listened, offering words of encouragement and sharing his own experiences as a newbie. He assured her that everyone felt overwhelmed at times, and the key was to ask for help and persevere.
Michael's genuine care and willingness to share his knowledge sparked a change in Sarah. Her anxieties eased, replaced by a newfound confidence and determination. She started asking questions, actively participating in meetings, and even taking on additional tasks with a newfound enthusiasm.
As weeks turned into months, Sarah's transformation became evident. Her confidence grew, her smile brightened, and her contributions to the team became invaluable.
But the impact of Michael's kindness extended far beyond Sarah. Witnessing his compassion inspired others in the office to be more open and supportive. The once-rigid environment softened, replaced by a sense of camaraderie and collaboration.
Lunch breaks became shared moments of laughter and conversation. People started taking the time to check in on each other, offering help and support whenever needed. The office, once filled with individual anxieties, transformed into a community where everyone felt valued and appreciated.
Michael's simple act of kindness had a ripple effect, reminding everyone that even in the most demanding environments, compassion and empathy can make a world of difference. It serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes the smallest gestures can have the greatest impact, leaving a lasting impression on the lives of those around us.
🤣 Meme of the Week
That’s it for 2023 - last newsletter for the year. See you all in January!!