Making Work an Adventure

Right then, desk warriors! Put down that lukewarm cuppa and listen up. Ever caught yourself staring at the clock, wondering if it’s secretly moving backwards? Or perhaps dreaming of your next holiday while your inbox multiplies faster than rabbits? Here’s a thought that might just change your work life: Don’t wait for vacation to feel alive. Infuse every workday with the energy of adventure.

Let’s face it – according to Gallup’s 2023 State of the Global Workplace report, only 23% of workers feel engaged at work. That’s fewer than the number of people who enjoy Marmite! But what if we could change that without waiting for your next trip to Machu Picchu?

Rethinking the Everyday (Without Going Full Bear Grylls)

Adventure isn’t about scaling mountains or surviving on weird bugs (thank goodness). It’s about approaching familiar situations with fresh eyes and an open mind. In our workplaces, this might mean:

1. Reframing Challenges
   • That impossible deadline? It’s not Mount Everest, but it’s your challenge to conquer
   • The printer that hates everyone? Think of it as your nemesis in an epic saga
   • That complicated spreadsheet? Your very own Da Vinci Code
2. Creating Your Mission
   • Turn your to-do list into a quest log (minus the dragons)
   • Break big projects into exciting milestones (achievement unlocked!)
   • Track progress like you’re levelling up in the world’s most sensible video game
3. Building Your Adventure Party
   • Connect with colleagues from different departments (like assembling your own Office Avengers)
   • Learn about others’ roles (everyone has a secret superpower)
   • Find mentors and mentees (Yoda would be proud)

Practical Steps for Workplace Adventure (No Khaki Required)

Start small but think creatively:

1. Transform Your Space
   • Turn your desk into mission control (cape optional)
   • Create an environment that energises you (without breaking H&S regulations)
   • Rearrange occasionally (just warn your neighbours first)
2. Develop New Skills
   • Master one new tool each month (Excel ninja, anyone?)
   • Volunteer for projects outside your comfort zone
   • Share your knowledge (become the Office Gandalf)
3. Create Daily Challenges
   • Take different routes to meetings (watch out for the marketing department)
   • Try new approaches to regular tasks
   • Set personal ‘missions’ each week (should you choose to accept them)

Making it Work (Without Getting Funny Looks)

The key to sustainable workplace adventure is finding the right balance:

1. Start Small
   • Begin with manageable changes (no abseiling from the roof)
   • Build on small successes
   • Keep what works, quietly retire what makes people nervous
2. Stay Professional
   • Work within organisational guidelines (obviously)
   • Focus on productive outcomes (your boss will appreciate this bit)
   • Maintain appropriate behaviour (save the Indiana Jones hat for Halloween)
3. Share the Journey
   • Involve colleagues who show interest (ignore the eye-rollers)
   • Document successes (evidence for your next review)
   • Share learnings (but maybe not your secret identity)

The Innovation Connection

When we approach work with an adventurous mindset, we’re more likely to:

• Spot opportunities (like finding the last biscuit)
• Discover creative solutions (that actually work)
• Build stronger workplace relationships (beyond the tea round)
• Develop new skills (some even useful)
• Maintain higher energy levels (no extra caffeine required)

Your First Mission (Should You Choose to Accept It)

Start tomorrow with one small change:

• Take a different route to your desk (mind the wobbly tile by accounts)
• Approach a routine task differently
• Connect with someone new (yes, even that person who heats fish in the microwave)
• Learn one new feature of a tool you use daily (Excel has secrets to share)

The Real Impact

While your office might not be Machu Picchu (less altitude sickness, for one), it’s got its own opportunities for discovery. You might not uncover ancient Incan treasures, but you might find that long-lost stapler or discover who’s been stealing your milk.

Remember, some of the greatest adventures happen right where we are – even if that’s at a desk with a slightly dodgy wheely chair. No passport required, though you might want to pack snacks.

Ready to start your workplace adventure? Begin with one small change tomorrow. And remember – if anyone asks, you’re not being weird, you’re being innovative. There’s a difference.

P.S. This post was written without the assistance of any mythical creatures or actual adventurers, though several cups of tea were consumed in the process.

Reference: Gallup State of the Global Workplace 2023