This past Sunday I drove to my husband’s office with him and helped him decorate it in a theme of his choosing for his company’s Spirit Week – a time of the year in which the employees of his law firm have some team play time. 

We had fun removing a few extra chairs and creating a whole beach and picnic scene that garnered lots of response from his co-workers when they arrived Monday morning.  For example, one person said, “Wow!  Over the top, great!” and another said, “Cool.  Why didn’t I think of that?”  While a third said (eyeing the picnic basket), “I know where I’ll be spending my lunch hour!”

And all because my husband jumped in the game…despite being the only one in his office who did.  (There are two offices and some of the employees in the Irvine office did participate).  This was disappointing to Joe, but hasn’t deterred him from planning what he’ll wear for the other days where employees were asked to dress up in themed costumes.  Today was “The 80′s” and he looked classic in his courdouroy pants, white sports t-shirt with 3/4″ colored sleeves, boat shoes and Member’s Only jacket, when he left this morning.

When specific activities will boost morale and be fun to participate together in, why don’t employees do it?  Are they too embarrassed to show a personal side of themselves?  If it’s “too much hassle” I have to wonder what it’s like to work with the same people daily and how they show their appreciation of each other. 

Though exposing a ”real” side of yourself to others in a work environment can seem too personal, if you’re willing to stick your neck out and connect, others will follow suit.  By my husband continuing to stay in the spirit of the week, more folks joined in at both offices, figuring if he could show that playful side of themselves, so could they.  

Do you feel any resignation in your work and interaction with others and, if so, what can you do to change this?  Perhaps you can suggest a spirit week!

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