Today Was Fun: A Book About Work (Seriously)

In an era of workplace burnout and quiet quitting, Bree Groff's "Today Was Fun: A Book About Work (Seriously)" presents a compelling case for making work more genuinely enjoyable through intentional (oftentimes fun) achievable changes. In a nutshell, Groff proposes that the solution to improved performance isn't productivity hacks or better time management – we just need to inject more joy into our time at work.

Her radical and refreshingly human approach is based on seven key principles for creating better working days, emphasising practical, easy to grasp strategies and tools. Groff's approach focuses on incremental changes that people at work can put in practice immediately.

For managers and leaders, Groff's insights offer valuable frameworks for enhancing team engagement and productivity. Her emphasis on authentic relationships translates directly into building stronger team dynamics and psychological safety. Managers can apply her strategies for identifying "joyful work moments" to better understand what motivates their team members and adapt their work environments accordingly. The book's segment on managing stress and emotions provides leaders with tools for supporting their teams through challenging periods.

From a personal development perspective, both employees and managers can benefit from Groff's insights about managing their own professional personas. Her discussion of "business masks" and performative professionalism offers valuable self-reflection for leaders seeking to balance authenticity with professional effectiveness.

Oliver Burkeman, author of "Four Thousand Weeks," praises the book as "exuberant, practical, inspiring, and necessary," noting Groff's "often hilarious style" in making her "serious argument." Kirkus Reviews describes it as "an entertaining and trenchant case for humane workplaces and enjoyable jobs."

Groff's warm-hearted yet practical approach makes this essential reading for managers and leaders seeking to create more engaging, productive workplace cultures and anyone else wanting to re-set their relationship with the working day. This book stands out for its refreshing pragmatism and genuine humanity.

Listen to our podcast interview with Bree here.