Have you heard of hygee? (pronounced HOO-GA). Hygee is the Danish secret to happy living. It is about cozy togetherness and is an atmosphere and an experience. Being cozy with those we care about, getting comfortable by the fire with a warm cup of coca. How do we bring hygee to work? Many of us are lucky enough to work in spaces that are also someone’s home, so the transition to cozy is easy. Dim lights and sweets to share are an obvious start. But any office can bring a little hygee and think of ways to make things more casual and cozy. Here are five ideas to get hygge going at the office.
ORGANIZE A POTLUCK
Instead of bring lunch just for yourself, why not organize potluck for lunch one day of the week? When everybody shares, everybody gets hygee.
SET UP AN OFFICE GARDEN
If the office allow it, hou can add to the hygge by planting a few plants. Spending a few minutes each day tending to them may be a nice way to manage stress. Use containers for herbs if there is not outdoor plots, but if you grow produce that can be enjoyed at the potluck that is better.
BRING YOUR DOG TO WORK
When my daughter went away to college, I started taking her dog “Lucky” to work with me since she hid under the bed all day if she was left at home. Even though Lucky still hid under my desk most of the time, she would make rounds with me and brighten up everyone’s day along the way. Some offices welcome dogs, others may have to warm up to the idea but it adds that unconditional love we all need.
MAKE THE OFFICE MORE HOMEY
Couches for people to hold quick and informal meetings can make an office cozy. A couch encourages good conversations instead of facing each other across a sterile desk in an office setting. Add casual seating and eliminate desks.
HYGGE CUBICAL or OFFICE LIFE
Add some plants, have some socks in the drawer or a comfortable pair of slip-ons. Family photos, comfortable chairs, candles, and a piece of chocolate at your co-workers desk while they are at lunch.
