Play Time...
Okay, when was the last time you played?
No, I’m not talking about playing Monopoly Go on your phone or Astro Bot on your gaming console. I’m talking about board games, puzzles, fun outdoor activities (not the work out kind), karaoke…
Play is an activity that is self-chosen and self-directed, intrinsically motivated, guided by mental rules, imaginative, and conducted in an active, alert, but relatively non-stressed frame of mind.
Okay, so that definition may be a little much, but as an adult, play often gets relegated to a “kids only” activity and we have forgotten how to play.
In her article “Hit the Emotional Gym,” Dr. Emily Anhalt calls out the willingness to play as an important aspect of being an emotionally fit leader. “Emotionally fit leaders understand and encourage the importance of play. Play sparks spontaneity and creativity, and is a crucial part of emotional health and interpersonal cohesiveness. Playing means trying on thoughts or concepts to see how they feel. It means having a free exchange of ideas and meeting of the minds.”
The Benefits
Beyond the benefit s of creativity and innovation that is brings to the workplace. Play has many other benefits for us. On the Birdhouse Fam website, they say that embracing play can lead to a healthier, happier, and more balanced life. Here are the benefits they call out:
Reduces Stress and Enhances Well-Being
It’s a natural stress reliever and a great way to release those endorphins (the feel-good stuff).Boosts Creativity and Problem-Solving
Getting out of our routines and into a mode of exploring and experimenting boosts our creative thinking and problem-solving skills.Strengthens Social Connections
Play can be done solo, but when done with others you strengthen social bonds, deepen relationships and create memories. It’s a great way to build community.Improves Physical Health
Based on what you choose as a “play activity” you could actually be increasing your heart health, strength and flexibility. What better way to do it then just “exercising”?Cultivates a Sense of Wonder and Joy
Who couldn’t use more of this? Play let’s us shed the responsibilities of “adulthood” for a while and reconnect to joy.
How to Play More
At a recent PAUSE Retreat (Thanks Caroline Cochran, PHD, PCC & Ahndi Fridell) I asked myself this question. Here was my initial brainstorm:
Plan adult playdates (ask Maggie Lunetta of Studio Lu about this)
Take a dance class
Do something for the inner artist
Add in daily “play” breaks - these might just be 10 minute breaks to move (do you remember how to skip?), blow bubbles, work on that art project…
Maybe try pickleball?
Take more awe walks (we did this on the retreat)
Play with my dogs every day
Grab a coloring book
and….
So far I am getting ready to start a dance class, have a date with the ladies from the PAUSE Retreat to see the Australian Bee Gees Show and I’ll be scrapbooking over Mother’s Day weekend with some fabulous women.
If you are having trouble coming up with ways to play more or want to be in a community of adults who would like to do this. Check out Andrea Gharrit’s new venture - The Joy Collectors Club.
Life’s too short for all work and no play. And it’s too precious to go it alone. The Joy Collectors Club curates fun, low-stakes experiences to help you connect—with your joy, your neighbors, and a community that gets it.
Here, joy is serious business.
I love this concept because Andrea does all the heavy lifting for you, curating a monthly experience where all you have to do is show up and and enjoy! The first experience is a Night Under the Starts at Sauna Camp.
The Joy Collectors Club experiences will easily check a number of boxes on my “play more” list! My personal fav - 70's Disco Roller Skating Night - maybe I will see you there!
The key to all of this? Just find a little time - even 10 minutes to play. It’s good for work, your relationships and especially you. We are all hard working - let’s be hard playing too!
See you on the “playground”!
