Ever been caught by the boss?
You know the moment when you've been working flat out all morning.
The work's getting done, deadlines are under control, and you've finally stopped for a few minutes to have a laugh with your colleagues.
That's when the boss walks in.
Suddenly, you're explaining yourself. "We've actually been really busy." "We've already finished that project." "We only just sat down."
Maybe it's just me, but I can remember plenty of times doing exactly that. Trying to justify the fact that I was taking a break, having a laugh, or simply being human.
The interesting question is: why do we do this? Why do so many of us feel the need to explain ourselves when we're resting?
Why do we sometimes assume that being seen laughing looks less productive than being seen looking busy?
What does that say about workplace culture?
A workplace where people feel they must constantly prove they're working can be exhausting.
A workplace where people can pause, connect, have a laugh and then get back to work is often a healthier and more productive one.
We know from neuroscience that our brains aren't designed to operate at full speed all day.
Rest, humour, connection, and brief moments of recovery help us think better, make better decisions and perform better.
So perhaps the real question isn't: why was I mucking around? Perhaps it's: why did I feel the need to justify it?
Maybe that says something about me, maybe about the boss, or maybe it says something about how many of us have been taught to view rest as something that needs defending.
Wally was caught taking a break and showing absolutely no intention of justifying it.
Let’s talk!
When You Get Caught!