Today we encourage positive thoughts and show gratitude for the simple things in life. Studies show that positive thinking can have a long-lasting effect on our health and wellbeing, especially when it comes to mental health. Your organisation can create a simple plan for making your employees smile and be happy today. Positive affirmations are a great start to the day. Leave a small note with a positive mindset quote or kind words of appreciation on our teams' desks for when they first walk in to start their day. You could play a fun song like Pharrell Williams' 'Happy' over the speakers and encourage everyone to get up and dance. The objective? Bring a smile and spread positivity and happiness.
Today we appreciate that being a working parent is tough. Recognise and pay tribute to the employees in your organisation who are juggling it all. You can support these employees by including their perspective in your company policies and procedures, and even foster a community for them by facilitating a parents group at work where they can meet in a safe space to discuss the highs and lows and feel supported amongst like-minded colleagues with similar struggles.
It might sound like a silly theme to celebrate, but the origins of 'Ask a Stupid Question Day' are honourable. During the 1980s, a group of American teachers realised their students weren't asking questions for fear of being ridiculed. They designated a day especially for this, to encourage a safe way for their students to open up and share their curiosity with the class without fear. Could your organisation benefit from a dedicated safe space for employees who may be shy or assume their question is trivial? This can provide valuable insight into areas that may be lacking communication within the workplace and allow you the feedback you need to improve. A workplace Questions & Suggestions box can be a great way to keep this anonymous and available year-round if you feel some employees may be holding back ideas or questions and need to be further supported. Asking questions encourages us all to learn from one another and acquire new knowledge, and can open up some interesting discussions. One person's stupid question could be another person's revelation!
Created to honour Confucius, one of the world's greatest philosophers. In China and Taiwan, festivals and ceremonies are still held in his name on this day of remembrance. In other countries, we use this day to celebrate his teachings and the famous sayings he gave mankind. Share your favourite Confucius quote on your socials.
