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Can Bringing Your Dog To Work Make You More Creative?


You know that saying, “working like a dog”? Where did that originate? From what I’ve observed, most dogs have it pretty easy. Aside from eating, chasing squirrels and frequent bathroom breaks, dogs don’t do much more than lie around all day and nap, right?

And why should they? Studies have proven that dogs benefit their owners just by being present in their lives. In addition to helping lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, dogs are known to lessen anxiety, improve social skills and encourage physical activity.

But the question I have is: Can bringing your dog to work make you more creative?

As it turns out, recent evidence suggests that taking your dog to work may make a positive difference in the workplace by reducing stress and making the job more satisfying, according to a study published in the March issue of the International Journal of Workplace Health Management.

In the study, researchers from Virginia Commonwealth University observed a North Carolina company with a pro-pet policy for a week, during which time participants completed surveys and collected saliva samples.

The results? When dog owners brought their pets to work, they perceived less stress than the non-pet owners and dog owners who did not bring their pets to work. Overall, the company had a higher job satisfaction than others in the industry, too.

So what does this all mean in terms of boosting those creative juices?

Here’s my theory: Dogs are mans’ best friend. They make us happier and better at handling stressful situations. When we are less preoccupied, it is easier for us to sort through the mental chaos that comes along with having too much to do and too little time. The ability to think through this “chaos” allows us to more easily tap into the part of the brain stimulates our creativity and imagination.

Did you know that Google has had an open door policy for dogs since their early days, believing that happy people are more creative and innovative?

We also have an open door policy for dogs every Friday at The Brandon Agency! Although I don’t have a dog of my own to bring along, I do enjoy the company of my fellow co-workers’ furry companions. Friday’s are definitely more enjoyable when their smiling faces and wagging tails come strolling through my office. On second thought, maybe Monday should be Bring Your Dog to Work Day, seeing as those are usually the most non-looked-forward-to days of the week. Wouldn’t you agree?

As we approach the official Take Your Dog to Work Day, tomorrow, June 22nd, consider letting your pup tag along (if your boss allows) and observe what changes you see around the workplace.

Not allowed to bring Fido to work? There are other ways to get those creative juices flowing. Studies have shown that physical exercise can enhance creative thinking, too.

Downward dog anyone?

Are you allowed to bring your dog to work, and if so, how much does that add to your job satisfaction?

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