Have you played board games with your co-workers? This question popped into my head while working on the “Colorforms Board Games” video, as part of the Twelve Days of Christmas Gift Ideas playlist on Photics.TV (YouTube). Three inexpensive board games were tested — Battleship, Monopoly, and Scrabble Junior. Even though all three games were under four bucks, it was a fun experience.
It occurred to me that in my career, which includes many different jobs, I don’t recall a single instance of playing a board game with co-workers. And surprising, I can only remember one video game moment — but it was hysterical. 😄
That’s when I wondered, perhaps the jobs wouldn’t have been so miserable if a few lunch breaks did include some board game fun. Instead of rambling about politics or the usual negative office chit-chat, what if the middle of the day was a truly relaxing and fun experience?
While thinking about this matter, I entered this question into Google search, “is it OK to play board games during lunch break?”
The AI Overview response was pretty good…
Yes, generally speaking, it is considered acceptable to play board games during your lunch break, as this time is typically considered “off the clock” and a chance to relax and socialize with colleagues, provided you are not disrupting others or neglecting work responsibilities; however, it’s important to check your company’s policies and gauge the overall workplace culture to ensure it’s appropriate.
The main problem I can see is that board games are competitive. I couldn’t think of a board games that didn’t end with a winner and a loser. That’s probably the main reason why I haven’t done it. Work is already such a competitive experience.
That’s why a poll was created. In the Photics.TV community, there are two options — Yes or No. Is it common for co-workers to play board games together?
With smartphones and desktop computers, I’m surprised people still occasionally make eye contact. That’s a problem! Is humanity losing the ability to socialize and work together?
When I started working with computers, only a small percentage of people were doing it. There were stereotypes, how computers were for nerds and geeks, but what if that isn’t the situation? What if computers are MAKING introverts, rather than just attracting introverts? 🙀