The concept of play is very important to us. As adults, it is easy to lose perspective on the good things that play can do. Play not only brings joy, but it can lead to better ways to solve problems, boost creativity, and establish solid relationships. Even when we find ourselves in a serious working environment, a little bit of play can go a long way toward boosting our productivity and happiness.
Psychiatrist and author of the book Play, Stuart Brown, provides some tips on how we can incorporate more elements of play into our lives.
Change how you think about play. Remember that play is important for all aspects of our lives, including creativity and relationships. Give yourself permission to play every day.
Take a play history. In his book Brown includes a primer to help readers reconnect with play. He suggests readers mine their past for play memories. What did you do as a child that excited you? Did you engage in those activities alone or with others? How can you recreate that today?
Surround yourself with playful people. Brown stresses the importance of selecting friends who are playful and of playing with your loved ones.
Play with little ones. Playing with kids helps us experience the magic of play through their perspective. What could be better than that?
Have fun and PLAY!
Any time you think play is a waste, remember that it offers some serious benefits for both you and others. As Brown says in his book, “Play is the purest expression of love.”
Those attending the SHRM conference next week in Chicago have an opportunity to play and contribute to a great cause. Come to Grant Park next Sunday night at 7:00 to see some HR rock stars playing kickball and doing good for No Kid Hungry. Knowing the people involved, I’m sure fun will be had by all. Even if you can’t be there, you can donate to the very worthy No Kid Hungry cause and be a part of playing a role in helping end childhood hunger. After all, play is the most important thing a child can do! Let’s give all of them a chance to worry only about play, and not from where their next meal may come.
