How to Play Solitaire at Work Without Getting Caught

Let’s be honest—all of us need to goof off every now and then, don’t we? And there is a way to do so discreetly, to minimize the chances that you will get caught. Here’s how.

Things You'll Need

• Sharp eyes and ears
• <br>Fast reflexes
• <br>A computer with enough memory to smoothly multitask

Instructions

1. Have paperwork sitting nearby on your desk (within arm’s reach) that is pertinent to whatever project you are currently working on.

2. Open a window for whatever computer program you are supposed to be working on, and do some work.

3. Minimize your work program’s window, but make sure the program is still on your taskbar at the bottom of the computer screen.

4. Open a solitaire window, and play a game or two.

5. As soon as you see or hear your boss (or a coworker who doesn’t like you) coming, quickly minimize or close the solitaire window, bring back up your work program, and pick up your sheaf of paperwork with the other hand (optional).

6. Make a remark to your manager/coworker as she passes, or at least make eye contact with her. Make sure she sees you being productive.

Tips & Warnings

• The entire process outlined in Step 5 should take you only a couple of seconds. If it takes you longer than that, keep practicing until you can do it more quickly.

• Don’t goof off so much that you aren’t able to fulfill all your required duties. Your ability to fool your boss only goes so far. Even an incompetent and oblivious manager will catch on sooner or later if you aren’t getting your work done.