Becoming an adult often seems to mean leaving play behind. The term “adulting” refers to doing things that are joyless, boring and tiresome — the opposite of play. But we can embrace adulthood while still finding joy through play and being playful.
You might not realize it, but when you swing in your chair, slip off in an imaginative daydream, play sport for fun and not just to win, try something new that you are comfortable to fail at, laugh at a joke with a friend, read a book for pleasure or make something that doesn’t need to be judged or perfect, you are playing.
~ Trudy Meehan
Do you need more play in your life?
According to Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, et. al, “…play is fundamentally important for 21st century skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, creativity, and more. Further, it can relieve stress and support emotional regulation. Play is not just for children – evidence indicates that it is critical for adults too.”
In her article on play, Trudy Meehan gives us tips on harnessing play.
- Learn how you like to play. What activities bring you joy?
- Plan to play. Make a “playlist” of activities and schedule them.
- Reflect on play. Even thinking about playful moments can increase joy and decrease depression.
Add more play to your life for more joy and social connectedness
References
- Hirsh-Pasek, Kathy. Why play is serious work
- Meehan, Trudy. Adults can find joy through play, too
- RediscoveringPlay.com