Three Ways You Can Deliver the Employee Experience (EX), They’re Craving

1. Play 2. Play 3. Play  As I began researching this article, I started asking Google, what are the scientific benefits of laughter?  Even though we all know how we feel when we laugh, I wanted the facts. 

The facts for all those naysayers who say they like to laugh but who don't believe it belongs in the workplace, which currently, for many of us, is in our kitchen, dining room, or stairwell. 

We all know how we feel when we laugh when those magical hormones, endorphins go up and that stress, that we didn't even know we had, is gone, and the TV blaring in the other room? who cares!  

​There are nine million results on google, for the “scientific benefit of laughter.” Mayoclinic is the first to write about it.  “Stress Relief from laughter – it’s no joke.”  How cute is that?! 

​But, I got more curious.  You see, I’m not a big fan of one person who’s “just great at telling jokes.”  A lot of times, I am that person. And I am pretty good at it.  Still, not satisfying.  ​

​So, where else can we find healthy laughter at work?  Through play.  I looked up the scientific benefits of play. 

​What???  Not just 9 or 10 million like laughter.  How about 125 million results on the scientific benefits of ADULT play!!! 

​I even qualified it – no kids play here!

Gray, research professor of psychology at Boston College, shares a few of his findings. Play:

• Reduces Stress – got to love those endorphins.​
• Improves brain function – no matter what the age.  Yes!
• Stimulates the mind – according to the newest survey by The Conference Board, the #1 concern of CEO’s is innovation.  Play  just may be the magic bullet for business.
• Boosts productivity – without burnout.
• Improves Relationships – “a team that laughs together – is a team!” Me

What’s most important to note, is that we’re not just talking about sports games.  In fact, for my purposes, we’re going to set that aside.  What about the rest of us who just can’t catch the soft ball anymore, or ever could?

There is play you can do right now, in Zoom or Teams, whatever the virtual platform.  Now, tell me, which of the handful of benefits above do you feel would NOT be a game changer for your organization – in the middle of a pandemic?
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Here’s a quick activity you can start with today.  SUPERHERO/SUPERPOWER Activity