Learn how to keep morale high in a bad economy with these inspirational tips from motivational speaker Joel Zeff. Keeping morale high during a bad economy doesn’t have to be impossible. Use these tips and you will notice a positive change in your employee’s morale in no time.
It’s hard to have fun at work during stressful times. Your stress builds after each media report about the recession. You start hearing whispers of a merger, layoff or the all encompassing “restructuring.” Your manager does not listen. Your customers don’t listen. The guy that sells sandwiches in the lobby does not listen. Maybe it is just easier to be cranky.
We are all facing challenges. Today, the economy is our main concern. Tomorrow, there will be other obstacles. How do we continue to motivate and energize our employees during difficult times?
Yes, you can have fun. And in the process, reduce your stress and help create a more productive, innovative and fun work environment. First, we have to create a foundation so that fun can exist. Here are twelve simple ideas to reduce your stress, help motivate your employees and create a foundation to have more fun.
1. Think about what makes a great day at work. The next time you have fun at work, take a moment to reflect. Write down what happened that made the day so great. What did you do? What did you say? You now have your “great day” list. You know what you need. Work toward it. Fun is different for everyone. Remember the kid in your high school algebra class who got really excited when he solved a complex math problem?
That is fun for him. For me, math is the equivalent of jury duty, going to the dentist, and cleaning the garage all in the same day. Take a few moments each day, gather your team, and ask your employees to share something on their “fun” list. Not only will the group enjoy the experience, but will gain appreciation for each other.
2. Sometimes you have to ask. If something is bothering you and causing stress, then speak up and say something. Most people will just stew or whine in the break room rather than speak up. They don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings. Guess what? Someone’s feelings are being hurt – your feelings. If you ask nicely, most people would be happy to oblige and help. They probably don’t even know their words or actions are bothering you.
3. Be in the moment with your co-workers. Working in the moment means being focused and connected. Listen to each other. Make eye contact. Engage in the communication process. Try something new: put your e-mail enabled phone down and communicate with the living, breathing person sitting in your office.
Joel’s spontaneous humor and vital messages have been thrilling audiences for years. As a national speaker and humorist, Joel captivates audiences with a unique blend of hilarious improvisational comedy and essential ideas on work and life. Corporations and organizations nationwide seek him out to motivate and energize their employees on such topics as creativity, communication, teamwork, passion and fun. To learn more about how to keep morale high in a bad economy, you can contact Joel Zeff today or visit his blog.
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