So, I found the origins for you on Quora in an answer by Patti Charron—

“ The phrase dates back to the time that Viking ships were crossing the Atlantic. It was a grueling crossing and generally longer than trips the sailors were used to. Those who complained affected the mood of others. A policy of beatings was implemented to squash the complainers to increase morale. The phrase you described is the exact wording of the sign posted on the galley.”

But modern day usage really is just an injection of sarcasm; say when your bosses (in that corporate job) want you to do something that you know is a waste of time, you just let off steam by saying that.

And Thanks for the vote, I’ll append the para into the story :)