Why Play Matters More Than Ever
When was the last time you played just for the joy of it? In our fast-paced world, play often feels like a luxury rather than a necessity. But what if it were the key to creativity, well-being, and productivity?
In previous blog posts, I’ve written about the benefits of play in Executive Function development, problem-solving, brainstorming, and creative inspiration. Today, I want to share how to make engaging with play—both personally and professionally—more attractive and accessible.
The Juxtaposition of Play and Purpose
Play is a fundamental human activity that transcends age. It is often characterized by its lack of a specific purpose or goal; we engage in it simply because we can. However, in a world dominated by screens and responsibilities, creating intentional spaces for play can provide significant benefits.
Interestingly, while we may introduce play to reduce screen time and foster deeper connections, its core essence remains—doing something purely for the joy of it.
The Rise of Offline Clubs and Gatherings
To counteract screen fatigue and encourage real-world interactions, various offline clubs and gatherings have emerged. These include:
- Offline Clubs: Spaces where individuals can engage in different activities at their own pace. Attendees bring board games, paint, meditate, do yoga, read, or simply sit under a tree and observe the clouds. The environment fosters creativity and connection without a strict agenda.
- Silent Book Clubs: People gather to read quietly in the company of others, followed by optional discussions or social interactions.
- Group Dinners with Strangers: Phoneless dinners that bring together friends and strangers, encouraging face-to-face conversations and new friendships.
Even some airline companies have started promoting knitting, crocheting, and colouring books in lounges, encouraging passengers to engage in creative, playful activities instead of staring at screens.
These spaces make us feel safe, surrounded by like-minded people, and open to engaging in activities without judgment. They help us reconnect with what we did best as children—play, have fun, collaborate, and be creative.
The Three Key Benefits of Play
- Enhances Well-Being – Play helps reduce stress, improves mood, and boosts overall mental health.
- Sparks Creative Inspiration – Play fosters out-of-the-box thinking, leading to new ideas and perspectives.
- Encourages Learning – Children primarily learn through play, and adults can also absorb new skills in a more engaging way.
Why Do We Stop Playing?
Our journey away from play often begins in our teen years, when peer pressure and concerns about being “cool” take precedence. We fear looking silly or getting things wrong, making us play less.
As we grow older, responsibilities take over, and time feels scarce. We forget how much fun play once was, but the perception of “not having time” can shift by setting personal boundaries and prioritising play in small ways.
How to Re-Engage with Play
According to research, there are various play personalities and types of play. Finding what resonates with us can make play more enjoyable and sustainable.
Play Personalities
- Joker
- Kinesthete
- Explorer
- Competitor
- Director
- Collector
- Artist/Creator
- Storyteller
Types of Play
- Movement Play: Running, dancing, cycling, swimming, sports.
- Object Play: Building with Lego, crafting, working with clay.
- Imaginative Play: Storytelling, creative writing, role-playing.
- Social Play: Group games, hiking, board games.
- Celebratory Play: Festivals, birthdays, weddings, dancing.
- Hobby Play: Painting, model-building, DIY projects.
Creating a Safe Space for Play
For play to be effective, we need to feel safe—both physically and psychologically.
- Physical Safety: Indoor play is naturally safer, but outdoor play should be done in secure environments, either with groups or in familiar spaces.
- Psychological Safety: Play should happen in environments where we feel free from judgment or criticism. Surrounding ourselves with supportive people encourages uninhibited engagement.
Making Play a Habit: The Power of Commitment
Even though play is spontaneous, making time for it requires commitment. It’s easy to substitute play with screen time, but prioritising play leads to long-term benefits.
Joining play-based groups or clubs can make the commitment easier by providing structured opportunities to engage in playful activities.
Integrating Play into the Workplace
Playing in our personal lives is easier than incorporating it into the workplace. Some organisations still fear that play will be a distraction rather than a productivity booster. However, forward-thinking companies recognize the value of play in fostering creativity, collaboration, and employee engagement.
How Companies Are Incorporating Play:
- Physical Play Spaces: Screen-free areas with games, puzzles, and creative outlets.
- Team-Building Activities: Escape rooms, improv workshops, and team challenges.
- Innovation Labs: Play-driven brainstorming sessions, like those at IDEO and Pixar.
- Wellness & Mindfulness Programs: Playful activities such as dancing, breathwork, yoga, and music therapy to reduce stress.
- Flexible Work Environments: Themed meeting rooms, outdoor collaboration spaces, and playful office designs.
Final Thoughts
Reintegrating play into our lives—both personally and professionally—is not just about having fun. It’s about enhancing well-being, fostering creativity, and improving our ability to connect with others.
Whether through movement, social activities, or creative outlets, play offers endless benefits. It’s time to rediscover the joy of playing—not just because we have to, but because we can.
So, what’s your play personality? And how will you reintroduce play into your daily life?
To find out more about introducing play into your life please feel free to reach out.
