Get Out and Play

By

Two little girls friends have fun together with kite and toy plane on the field at sunny daytime.

“Play is an antidote to stress and a foundation for wellness. When we have playful experiences, we are improving our brains and our lives.”—National Institute for Play

What comes to mind when I ask, “When do you play?”

Many of us are simply afraid to let loose and play, for any number of reasons:

  1. We don’t think we deserve the time off, especially if others still have to work
  2. We think we have to be available 24/7 and that only we can solve or take care of issues that may come up while we’re off playing
  3. We don’t want to look foolish or childish (yet look at how wonderful children are, and how play led to some of the world’s greatest inventions)
  4. We’re too exhausted (yet how much energy does it take—and how much could you gain—from watching a 10-minute video or setting aside a couple of hours for a movie?)

Have you ever noticed how refreshed you feel after some time away? Or how invigorating it feels to have a good old-fashioned belly laugh? What does that do for your creativity and quality of work?

Leaders, I’d love to start a conversation about how companies and leaders can foster an environment where time off for play (and/or a playful approach to work) is allowed and encouraged.

What stories or ideas can you share?

Lastly, I’d like to give you permission, right now, to get out and play. Not sure where to start? Check out these resources from the National Institute for Play.