We have all heard about the importance of de-stressing after a long day at the office. There are many ways to do this, from hitting the gym, cooking, and crafts to puzzles. What if one of those activities could improve your skills at work? Here are some ways jigsaw puzzles can make you better at your job.
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Problem-Solving Skills
There isn’t a job out there that does not require problem-solving skills. Jigsaw puzzles are a fun way to strengthen these skills. Most of the time, trying to get a puzzle piece to fit is trial and error. You choose a few pieces that look like they will fit, but to determine the correct piece, you try the pieces until one locks into place. The same thing happens in the workplace. You develop a few ideas for solving a problem but try different ways to determine the best solution.
Enhance Creativity
Though many believe completing a jigsaw puzzle has nothing to do with creativity, this could not be further from the truth. It takes creativity to look at jumbled pieces and envision the finished product. Not only does it take creativity to determine how the pieces interlock, but it also assists in isolating the correct piece. It is not very efficient to try every piece in a specific spot. At work, creativity enables you to take a step back, envision the whole picture, and determine what changes are necessary to create the best outcome.
Pay Close Attention to Detail
When putting a jigsaw puzzle together, you must pay close attention to detail. It takes more than just looking at the shape of the pieces; you need to notice colors, orientation, and other factors to place pieces in the correct spot. Many aspects of our jobs require the same type of attention. From reviewing financial documents to creating presentations, paying attention to detail is crucial for success.
Improve Memory
For those who hide the picture, even those who don’t, putting a jigsaw puzzle together helps improve memory recall. After all, you need to remember what the overall finished puzzle looks like to assemble the elements within the puzzle. The reverse is true, too. You need to recall the small details to complete the bigger picture. By strengthening your memory recall, you can better remember important dates, meeting details, client wants and needs, and more.
Communication Skills
Putting a jigsaw puzzle together with others requires patience and communication skills. There is one common goal: to complete the puzzle. Everyone needs to work together and communicate to find the pieces and place them in the right spots. The same applies to the workforce. When working with others, the same skills are required. The goal is to create a great project. It takes strong communication skills and teamwork to achieve success.
There is no doubt that jigsaw puzzles reduce stress and enable relaxation. However, it is necessary to note the other benefits of puzzles. Spending a few evenings working on puzzles will assist you in developing and sharpening several skills that help you grow and succeed within the workforce.