Rules are Fun!

Rules are Fun! It might seem impossible to make this a true statement. Increasing regulations preoccupy us and influence our daily chipper attitude at work. They continuously pose questions like: ‘What are we not doing right now?’ And: ‘Am I complying with the rules, the norms?’ Working toward achievement and having to comply with rules add to an increasing and often too-high stress level at all layers of the workforce. But where does the negative connotation of the word ‘rule’ come from? Is it fear of punishment? Why do we want to follow rules? Is it because the complexity in society and in our organizations increases and, therefore, also increases in our lives? These questions already prompted me in 2007, first edition, and in 2023, second edition, to see if automated aids could be helpful to reduce the pressure and regain or hold on to the Work-is-Fun feeling, if it is still there.