The Benefits of Playtime for Stronger Business
Did you know, playtime is not just for kids; it can actually make us stronger in business?!
Engaging in playful activities allows us to tap into our creativity, problem-solving skills, and resilience. Playtime helps us to develop important qualities that are highly beneficial in the business world.
As a child playtime taught me to think outside the box, adapt to unexpected circumstances and to work collaboratively with others. As an adult entrepreneur, I can appreciate every single one of those experiences in an extremely valuable way.
Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock, you are familiar with the level of burnout, stress and anxiety that is plaguing, well…, everyone these days. Something about “all work and no play…” seems to be a resounding way of life now. We’re inundated with negativity from all sides in the news, viruses, wars, etc…And that’s just on the grand scale. Everyone is feeling the effects.
Which is why I focus on bringing in daily habits that cultivate self-care. These routine habits that let me stay steadfast in work/life balance have been the biggest tools in my professional productivity and growth.
For today’s purpose I will define playtime as any experience that allows you to belly laugh, embrace wonder, and add a little silly. As a cherished opportunity where we can fully embrace the joy and wonderment of life, playtime is key!
Why Add Playtime?
Playtime invites us to let go of our responsibilities and obligations, even just for a brief moment, and immerse ourselves in the sheer delight of being present.
How often during the day do you feel fully present? For most people, this is a significant struggle. There are many reasons why this is, and we could delve into exploring those. But today, I won’t. Today, we’ll just agree that it’s a true struggle to show up for life fully present and plugged into the moment.
Playtime makes focusing on the present easier.
Laser tag is a normal occurrence in our house… yes, in our house. At any given time anyone can pull out those laser tag guns and mayhem can ensue. Inside, outside, under beds, in the closets… During our games a level of vigilance is needed in order to avoid getting tagged. We hate short laser tag games.
Sometimes we pair off, sometimes we fly solo. At every moment during our games, we must be full present. Ironically, it’s much easier to focus completely during a game of active laser tag than it is when I sit down to do a mundane business action item.
You know what I noticed though? Breaking up my work day with random moments to playtime actually helps me to focus better and increase productivity.
Why knew?
We all thrive when we are actually able to be fully present in all the things we are doing. Balancing out our work/play scale can be the key to unleashing the joy that many feel is absent in the better part of their days.
Why?
Do you enjoy sitting at the desk feeling like the day is dragging as you force yourself to drink more coffee to stay alert enough to finish work? Or is it more productive to take a 20 minute break that truly refreshes and resets your energy so that you can return and finish that project up in half the time… you know, because you aren’t tired. Your brain isn’t bored. You’ve boosted in some new energy.
Playtime Encourages Creativity
Embracing playtime allows us to tap into our creative spirit, unveiling our inner child who is bursting with imagination and curiosity. It fuels our sense of adventure, encouraging us to explore new possibilities and push the boundaries of what we thought was possible.
If unveiling our inner child unlocks imagination and curiosity, can you see how that would be a great benefit to your professional life?
Being encouraged to explore new possibilities because of having playtime, can unleash new rippling power into our business, networking, productivity, communication, etc…
Playtime Increases Problem Solving Abilities
Playtime is not only fun, but it also presents valuable opportunities for problem-solving. Whether it's building a tower with blocks or maneuvering through an obstacle course, children engage their critical thinking skills during play.
Through experimentation, trial and error, and imaginative thinking, they learn to identify problems and devise creative solutions. Playtime provides a safe and low-pressure environment for us all to navigate challenges and explore different strategies.
By encouraging play that involves problem-solving, we are nurturing our own ability to think critically, develop resilience, and find innovative solutions, skills that are essential for success in the real world, and in our businesses.
Playtime Breeds Stronger Business
Playtime offers a refreshing break from the rigors of business and allows us to recharge, rejuvenate, refresh, and restore so that we can come back with a fresh perspective. So let us rid ourselves of any guilt or reservations and fully embrace the beauty of playtime. It holds the power to inspire, delight, and reconnect us with the essence of pure joy.
This week let's add a healthy dose of playfulness to our lives to foster personal and professional growth, build stronger teams, and become more resilient entrepreneurs. Who’s with me?
