New Workplace Rituals

How have your small workplace rituals changed - especially if you are not in the office as much? You know, those things we do for ourselves or with our team that show we value each other enough to create a small action that signifies a deeper meaning.

It used to be about the birthday cake, decorating someone's desk or locker when they return from leave or doing the quiz from the newspaper.

And we know that ritual is important. Heidi Grant Halvorson talks about how these little acts add value. In one study, participants were asked to perform a task in a certain way - in this case, unwrap and eat a candy bar in a particular way - and others were not given any specific instructions. Those who had to perform the ritual reported significantly greater enjoyment.

We are meaning-seeking creatures. Rituals may enrich how we experience our everyday actions, the environment we work in and demonstrate we value the people we work with.

What is a workplace ritual that you miss - that is new - or that has remained constant over the last couple of years?