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The majority of an adult’s day is spent at work – seriously. Just take a look at these figures: Mexicans are at the top of the list clocking in 2,317 hours a year, Korea is not so far behind with 2,092 hours, and Americans toil away for 1,790 annual hours. That is a big chunk of time to be at your job, so how about making those hours a bit more enjoyable? Here are five surefire ways to make your working environment a happy place.
1. BRING YOUR PET TO WORK
A furry creature can insert a bit of levity and fun to any office situation.
SCIENTIFIC PROOF: Animals, dogs in particular, are known for their therapeutic abilities and giving little Rover a pat on the head releases oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and affection.
TAKE IT A STEP FURTHER: Make a pet visit a weekly or monthly event at the office with workers alternating who brings in their furry friends.
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2. EAT LUNCH WITH YOUR COLLEAGUES
You are swamped with work and thinking of just scarfing down your lunch at your desk - but stop!
SCIENTIFIC PROOF: Eating lunch at your desk can limit creativity and increase stress.
TAKE IT A STEP FURTHER: Rally some of your coworkers and make it a point to dine together at least once a week. You might want to change your environment and step out of the office and eat at a restaurant. Go the extra mile and talk about topics that don’t relate to work.
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3. GREEN UP YOUR OFFICE
Insert a bit of nature into your working space, you’ll benefit from some extra O2 and it sure looks darn pretty.
SCIENTIFIC PROOF: Placing a plant on your desk at work increases productivity.
TAKE IT A STEP FURTHER: Plant some fresh herbs or indoor veggies at the office that everyone at work can use to spice up their lunches – while you all eat together!
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4. KEEP A SNACK STASH
If you have just finished a hearty lunch or are in need of a midday pick-me-up, snacking on a bit of sweet can definitely do the trick.
SCIENTIFIC PROOF: When dipping your hand into the sweet drawer, go for dark chocolate as it’s a potent antioxidant and makes for a healthy choice. If you need more convincing, here are 6 reasons why it’s actually good for you.
TAKE IT A STEP FURTHER: Make a rotation and have colleagues bring in a different delicious treat each week.
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5. GET SOME FRESH AIR
Instead of staring at your computer screen and watching that YouTube video for the fourth time, take a breather outside.
SCIENTIFIC PROOF: Raising your heart rate - even for a few minutes – encourages the release of feel-good endorphins, and fresh air clears the mind and helps you better concentrate.
TAKE IT A STEP FURTHER: Schedule a daily outdoor break with some officemates and make a point to go outside at least once a day
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