TL;DR – We scroll through our phones after finishing our meals during lunchtime to avoid awkward silence. How about replacing the screen time with a fun-filled board game moment where colleagues can bond and have a great time?
Board games are not just for kids. In recent years, board games have seen quite a resurgence in popularity. There are many benefits to playing board games, perhaps employers should consider stashing some board games for employees to play at work.
Strengthen relationships
There are board games for two or more players, so you don’t need a huge group to start. Fundamentally, board games are played in cooperation. Players are required to engage in teamwork to achieve an objective. You may also discover the strengths and the thought process of your colleagues.
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Increase brain function
Playing stimulates parts of your brain that serve memory formation and complex thought processes. Engaging in play assists in practising cognitive skills, such as decision making, higher-level strategic thinking and problem-solving.
Researchers found that those who played more online casino games later in life had a better cognitive function in areas including memory, thinking speed, problem-solving and general cognitive ability than those who didn’t engage in game playing.
Reduce Stress
One outcome of board game playing is laughter. Laughter is a vital ingredient for an enjoyable learning experience and increases creativity. In general, laughing and having a good time helps to decrease stress and build stronger bonds.
Enhance creativity and self-confidence
Playing board games provides an opportunity for quiet individuals to display a creative side of their personalities in a non-intrusive way.
Each time a decision is made in the game, a stronger sense of individuality and creativity is developed. This process will subconsciously train our minds to quickly assess situations and make better decisions. This leads to greater self-esteem and a feeling of being included and noticed.
Are employers game?
An hour a week set aside for playtime could benefit the organization. Colleagues can bond with their team and foster stronger work relationships. This could be especially useful for new colleagues or colleagues who never had the chance to meet with their team because of Covid restrictions.
A mental break from work could also do good for the team. Sometimes the best ideas come when people are having fun.
Would employers be game to introduce playtime as part of a wellness activity?