Humor and play are often underestimated tools in the corporate transformation toolkit. At Limpid 7 Co, we believe that incorporating humor and play is essential for implementing transformation effectively. For the launch of our sister Chief Humor Officer (www.chiefhumorofficer.com), we want to stress how much we believe in the role of humor and play.
The principle is simple: Transformation is hard, and typically met with a lack of enthusiasm by employees who need to endure it. Hence the low success rate for transformation projects. Here’s our secret sauce to increase the success rate. Bringing levity to transformation programs can lower stress, foster creativity, and make the process of change feel less intimidating. Levity is typically achieved when someone is in the zone. One of the most used ways in daily life is enjoyment, play and laughter.
Introducing games or playful challenges helps break the ice, builds team cohesion, and stimulates out-of-the-box thinking. Play can be particularly effective in breaking down hierarchical barriers, allowing employees at all levels to connect and collaborate more freely. When people feel relaxed and engaged, they are more likely to contribute their ideas and participate actively in the transformation process.
Humor, when used appropriately, breaks down barriers and brings a sense of humanity to the process. It helps to diffuse tension, especially during challenging phases of transformation when uncertainty and resistance may be high. Leaders who use humor to acknowledge challenges and setbacks show vulnerability, which can help build trust and make them more approachable. Humor can also be used to reframe problems, making them seem less daunting and more manageable. For example, using a light-hearted analogy to describe a complex issue can help employees understand it better and feel more confident in tackling it.
Play can be an antidote to stagnation—it unlocks potential and allows people to see challenges in a new light. Incorporating play into workshops, training sessions, and brainstorming meetings can lead to more creative problem-solving and innovation. Activities like role-playing, team-building games, and creative competitions can help employees step out of their comfort zones and experiment with new ideas without the fear of failure. By incorporating humor and play into transformation programs, you foster a positive environment that encourages participation and experimentation. This, in turn, helps build a culture where change is seen as an exciting opportunity rather than a threat.
At Limpid & Co, we pride ourselves we solve change. Our sister Chief Humor Officer will make transformation a pleasurable experience …;-)