National Poetry At Work Day

A group of diverse professionals in an office setting, each holding a piece of paper with a beautifully written poem, showcasing creativity in the workplace.. — National poetry at work day illustration

Bring some poetry to your workplace on National Poetry at Work Day! This delightful day encourages everyone to express their creativity and appreciate the beauty of words while on the clock. Whether you're a seasoned poet or simply someone who enjoys dabbling in verses, this day is the perfect opportunity to showcase your lyrical skills in a professional setting.

When is Poetry At Work Day?

It's national poetry at work day on the 9th January.

A Celebration of Creativity in the Office

On National Poetry at Work Day, offices across the nation embrace the power of poetry as a means of fostering creativity, boosting morale, and promoting team-building. This unofficial holiday began as a way to break the monotony of the usual work routine and inject a dose of inspiration into daily tasks.

Poetry has long been celebrated for its ability to convey deep emotions and express complex thoughts in a concise and artistic manner. By incorporating poetry into the workplace, employees can tap into their creative sides, find new ways to communicate, and forge deeper connections with their colleagues.

How to Celebrate

There are numerous ways to partake in the festivities of National Poetry at Work Day. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Poetry Slams: Organize a friendly poetry competition where employees can recite their original works or share their favorite poems.
Decorate Your Workspace: Create an inspirational poetry wall or bulletin board where employees can showcase their favorite verses or even create collaborative poems.
Haiku Contest: Challenge your coworkers to come up with the most creative haikus related to your industry or current projects.
Poetry Reading: Gather your team for a poetry reading session during lunch breaks or after work hours. Encourage everyone to share their favorite poems and discuss their meanings.
Compose a Group Poem: Collaboratively write a workplace-themed poem, with each employee contributing a line or stanza.

Remember, the goal of National Poetry at Work Day is to celebrate creativity and enjoy a break from the usual work routine. Don't be afraid to let your imagination run wild and explore the wondrous world of poetry!

History behind the term 'Poetry At Work'

1963

The birth of the term

In 1963, Richard Hugo, a poet and professor, coined the term 'poetry at work'. He was exploring the idea that poetry can exist beyond the boundaries of literature and can also be found in everyday life, including in the workplace. Hugo believed that poetry could bring creativity, imagination, and a new way of looking at things into any job or profession.

1982

The publication of 'Poetry at Work'

In 1982, Marcus Bales wrote and published a book titled 'Poetry at Work: A Guide to the Craft of Writing Poetry'. This book aimed to inspire individuals to find and appreciate the poetry in their daily lives, particularly in their professional environments. Bales emphasized that poetry could enhance communication, foster mindfulness, and create deeper connections between people in the workplace.

1999

Poetry at Work movement gains momentum

In 1999, the Poetry at Work movement began to gain momentum. Writers, poets, and professionals from various fields started engaging in conversations about how poetry could positively impact the workplace. The movement aimed to promote creativity, self-expression, and emotional well-being through the integration of poetry in different work settings.

2010

The rise of poetry in corporate culture

Around 2010, there was a noticeable rise in the incorporation of poetry in corporate culture. Companies started recognizing the value of poetry as a means to foster innovation, employee engagement, and authentic communication. Poetry workshops, open mic sessions, and poetry contests became popular activities for employees, enabling them to express themselves and explore new perspectives in a creative and supportive environment.

Present

Continued influence and exploration

Today, poetry at work continues to positively influence various industries and work environments. Organizations and individuals acknowledge the power of poetry to inspire, provoke thought, and encourage empathy. Many professionals engage in creative writing, attend poetry readings, and even incorporate poetic elements into their presentations or speeches. The concept of poetry at work has expanded beyond traditional workplaces, touching fields such as entrepreneurship, technology, and even social activism.

Did you know?

Did you know that poetry has been scientifically proven to reduce stress and promote overall well-being? So, bust out those rhyming skills and give yourself a healthy dose of workplace tranquility!