A long time ago, a former company executive had compiled some guiding principles which everyone was to understand and follow in our jobs. They were good stuff, twenty-some entreaties such as the customer is king, dot the Is and cross the Ts, and if it’s not right, it’s wrong. What sticks in my mind as much as any of these is the final bullet on this now-obscure list: have fun.

In the middle of everything–the ups and downs, the relentless attention to detail, the occasional frustrations–we mustn’t forget to enjoy the ride. After all, that’s what makes it all worthwhile. Whether it’s in the job itself, the people around us, or the satisfaction that comes from success, we have to remember to find the joy. If there is no joy to be found, or if you stubbornly refuse to seek it out, it’s time to move on.

There’s a lot I love about what I do, but an occasional reminder never hurts. Next week, my co-workers and I are organizing a lunchtime cookout for the people who share our space. I’m looking forward to enjoying the company of the people around me, without the workday pressures for an hour or so. I’m looking forward to introducing a little fun into the climate. It’s so easy to forget.

P.S. If you can’t find the joy in your job, read this post from fellow blogger Anthony Juliano.