Why we need more fun at work (& how to do it)

Summary

Fun is a neglected but powerful part of wellbeing. Tim Jack Adams argues that play releases dopamine and serotonin, lifting mood and protecting mental health. GreenX7 data shows a fall in play alongside rising loneliness, chronic disease and depression. Adams reframes play as “purposeful leisure activating youthfulness” and outlines how play improves creativity, resilience, social connection and physical energy.

Key Points

Fun triggers neurochemicals (dopamine, serotonin) that boost mood and reduce risk of depression.
A decline in play correlates with increased loneliness, screen-spectating and poorer physical health.
Play improves brain function, creativity, emotional resilience and social bonds.
Flow (Csikszentmihalyi) links immersion and enjoyment to peak performance—play helps create that state at work.
Simple workplace tactics: short energisers, playful brainstorming, friendly competitions, flexible playful spaces, nature-based activities and themed days.

Context and relevance

The article ties employee wellbeing to measurable outcomes—mental health, creativity and engagement—and sits squarely within current trends that prioritise holistic workplace design and mental-health-first policies. For managers and HR leads, low-cost playful interventions can improve retention, collaboration and productivity.

Why should I read this?

Quick and honest: letting people have fun at work isn’t just nice — it actually makes teams healthier and more creative. This piece gives practical, no-nonsense ideas you can use straight away. Worth five minutes of your time if you care about morale and results.

Author style

Punchy and evidence-aware — Tim Jack Adams writes directly, mixing data from GreenX7 with actionable suggestions. If you’re responsible for people, this is the kind of short, useful nudge that’s easy to apply.