My ears are still ringing. A couple of days ago, I had to attend a company-wide team building event. Yeah, I know, I groaned too. I did go with an open mind truth be told but my greatest fears were unfortunately realised.
I really wonder about events like this and I definitely do not look forward to them. What's worse though is that when it comes to actual work, I think I'm already a team player and definitely very motivated as it is.
I consider myself a cautious optimist and I find joy in the little things. Conversations with colleagues, lunch together, an unexpected gift... there's already so many reasons why I'm happy to get to the office that a team building event actually does the opposite for me.
So this time, I wanted to share a photo diary of the little things that goes on at work that truly makes my day. And none of these involves anyone screaming and shouting.
And my ears are still ringing.
I really wonder about events like this and I definitely do not look forward to them. What's worse though is that when it comes to actual work, I think I'm already a team player and definitely very motivated as it is.
I consider myself a cautious optimist and I find joy in the little things. Conversations with colleagues, lunch together, an unexpected gift... there's already so many reasons why I'm happy to get to the office that a team building event actually does the opposite for me.
So this time, I wanted to share a photo diary of the little things that goes on at work that truly makes my day. And none of these involves anyone screaming and shouting.
And my ears are still ringing.
The Things That Has Made My Work Days Great!
I love to doodle and whether it's to help keep me focused during a long meeting or when a colleague needs a caricature, I always find ample opportunities to sketch and it calms me. And my most favourite thing to scrawl are rabbits!
My workplace has a penchant for puzzles and games. What this means for me is that I get to test and try lots of them! The problem solving experience drives me both insane and excited... it's a powerful combination.
I sometimes come back to my desk to find little surprises left by my colleagues. One of the things that really made my day was a siew pau (sweet roasted meat pastry) that I love! I ate it right away even though I just had my lunch.
My colleagues are fun people with really fun stuff! I mean, where else can you find a toy rat in a mystery box for people to put their hands in (and be surprised!)?
And if my colleagues are not nice enough, one of my network contacts in Tokyo sent a box of delicious Japanese treats! It certainly made my day as I was munching through them very happily.
Now don't get me wrong, the work can really be serious. And then again, I get a really cute dinosaur to process at times!
My colleagues will find any reason to celebrate! I got a gingerbread man for Christmas even though I don't celebrate it.
Every now and then, we also get invites to some funky and/or swanky functions. I went to one which served really good hors d'œuvres. I had thirds and fourths!
I love doodling rabbits because they're one of my favourite animals. So when I found a little wind up bunny on my desk one day, it sure made me smile!
My colleagues are also big fans of souvenirs! Whenever someone travels, they bring all sorts of goodies. I had this chocolate snack from a colleague who went to Argentina. Yums.
Some days are spent doing crafts. Yes, for real. It's work, it can be challenging, but it's always rewarding. I enjoy the keen focus, the opportunity to sample different facilitation styles, and I always love to learn!
A few colleagues have brought a cake to work for really no reason. How great is that!
Birthdays can be a big deal in the office! I had a mock cheque given to me last year to represent an envelope of gift vouchers.
I have to say that when my colleague gave me this book, I was like, err, ok but after reading it, it's now one of my most favourite reads. Surprises like this are not just fun but insightful.
Some days are just full of surprises. Maybe it's just me but when I first saw this tray, I could not figure out what they were. It's actually coffee sachets for a fancy schmancy machine with different colours representing different flavours and strengths.
How many offices are there in which you can find a parade of plaster farm animals? Enough said!
And finally, although this is not technically my office, this giant watermelon is in the same building! It's so big and so expensive. I really wonder if anyone bought it.
