As we hurdle toward the busy holiday season, consider measures that prevent burnout. One strategy? Inspire you team to learn new things, such taking up a group hobby that also builds morale, writes Heather Waits, AAF, in the November/December issue of Floral Management.
When your to-do list feels a mile long it can be tempting to log more and more time in the shop. But recreation is vital for our mental and physical health — and it enhances imagination and resourcefulness, leading to better job performance.
A study of 400 employees published in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology found that those who had hobbies had lower blood pressure and cortisol levels, even if their hobbies weren’t physically active, such as knitting or drawing. They also had lower levels of anxiety and depression, a more positive attitude and displayed more creative thinking on the job.
Mindful of the wealth of research touting the importance of play, Waits organizes group activities for her staff at Bloomtastic Flowers & Events in Columbus, Ohio, to keep everyone sharp and motivated. Some of their past experiences include yoga classes, paint and sip classes, and ziplining. “Studies have shown that having hobbies use a different part of the brain, improving memory and concentration,” Waits writes. “And we can all use that!”
Whatever you pursue — whether it’s artistic, athletic, culinary, or musical — “the key is to simply never stop learning,” Waits writes. “You and your team will only grow and better serve your serve your customers.”
For more ideas to inspire your team, check out Waits’ “Growth” column in the latest issue of Floral Management.
Katie Vincent is a contributing editor for the Society of American Florists.
