In a perfect world we could wear jeans to work, take a few hours for siesta, say what’s really on our mind, and win the lottery.  Unfortunately, we can’t have all of that, but we can have a comfy workplace.  Are you ergonomically correct? 

According to wiki, the most authoritative and accurate information source out there, “ergonomics is the scientific discipline concerned with designing according to the human needs, and the profession that applies theory, principles, data and methods to design in order to optimize human well-being and overall system performance”.  Well, that’s what wiki said the International Ergonomics Association said.  The field is also called human engineering, and human factors engineering -- I have a friend who went to grad school for this discipline. 

Bottom line, your workplace should promote full comfort for your body so that you can successfully work 90 hours a week and not develop carpal tunnel or a hunchback.  There are companies that sell erg correct office furniture, and you can buy accessories like an erg mouse for your computer.  The ambitious can probably even hire an erg interior designer, I’m sure.

Workingwomen are the masters of making dual use of their time.  If you’re not one of the women who bikes or runs to work, you can get back more of your personal time by working out at work.  Managers are beginning to promote employee health by holding meetings at the gym.  You can just reserve a small workout room with bicycles or gather around and take a walk on the treadmill.  Low impact cardio exercise lends itself to business discussions and maybe even note taking. 

Work workouts provide a refreshing change of scenery and a relaxed environment that can foster creative ideas, and the workouts are even easier to schedule if your job has a fitness center.  Work can cause stress, and stress can lead to illness, but exercise is a proven source of stress relief.  Now, instead of stressing out at weekly team meetings in a conference room, you can stress while you’re cruising on the elliptical.  At least you’re undoing the stress as it happens, right?  Before you know it, your 45 minutes of cardio is complete, work is finished, and home you go.

Progressive companies out there now offer reverse mentoring opportunities.  This completely voluntary process is gradually gaining momentum and allows seasoned professionals to seek mentoring from young professionals.  Who wouldn´t subscribe to this great idea? 

Having trouble accessing your company´s facebook account?  The young professional may be able to offer an enthusiastic tip or two, while also providing a fresh eye for company improvements, and a new perspective on your leadership and business operations. 

And, while it´s easy to get caught up in the nostalgia of a daughter-like figure providing mentoring guidance, this relationship can certainly rejuvenate and motivate you.  You´ll begin to re-examine your current working environment and even seek inspirational action items, like using podcasts for company exposure, lunchtime board room yoga, or something...

Young professionals always seek seasoned professionals for guidance and leadership, and it´s nice to see the concept reversed, as young professionals have much to offer also.  What could you offer in reverse mentoring, or what would you like to learn from your young professional mentor?