Permission to Play
“Almost all creativity involves purposeful play.”
— Abraham Maslow
Maslow was onto something profound. Think about it: purposeful play. Now, imagine stepping inside the legendary Pixar Studios. A friend who toured their Emeryville campus didn't just talk about the cool buildings; they described a space buzzing with playfulness. Yes, there's a basketball court, but it's more than just a perk. It’s a space where animators, taking a break, might catch a colleague's hilarious expression mid-game and find the spark for the next iconic character. Pixar champions this seemingly simple idea: creativity thrives when we make space to simply play. They understand that inspiration often strikes not when we're grinding, but when we're lost in the moment, letting loose.
Does that ring a bell deep down?
Cast your mind back. Remember the glorious chaos of childhood? Blanket forts transforming living rooms into castles, imaginary friends who were real (your secret's safe here!), sidewalk chalk masterpieces washed away by rain, endless games governed by rules you made up on the spot. For me? It was dramatic monologues performed with gusto to an invisible, adoring audience (Yea…my Mom caught me a couple times!). It was the sheer joy of getting lost in imagination, no agenda needed.
That playful spirit is pure magic. But somewhere between paying bills, endless to-do lists, and "being responsible," we often bury it. Adulting seems to demand seriousness, and we forget the effortless way play used to ignite our days.
But what if that spark isn't gone, just waiting to be rediscovered? What if reclaiming play is the secret key to unlocking not just more fun, but a more vibrant, creative, and resilient you?
It's time to invite play back into your grown-up life. So let’s get it back!
Ready to reignite your inner child? Here are 7 ways to inject some purposeful play into your routine:
Host an Epic "Adult Playdate": Forget stuffy gatherings. Think coloring stations, competitive LEGO building, friendship bracelet corners (yes, that’s right, we're taking back!), and snacks that scream nostalgia. Crank up the music and invite your friends to ditch the pretense and embrace the fun.
Mandatory Recess: Claim Your 15 Minutes: Set a daily "recess alarm." When it rings, stop everything. You can doodle, have a 3-minute dance party in your kitchen, blow bubbles out the window (you know you want to!), or just stare out the window and daydream.
Game Night, Reimagined: Dust off those board games, but add a twist! Invent ridiculous house rules. Play Pictionary with your eyes closed. Try charades using only interpretive dance. The goal isn't just winning; it's belly laughs.
Improv for the Everyday Soul: You don't need a stage. Gather friends (or even just challenge yourself) for quick improv games or storytelling prompts. Rule #1: There are no mistakes, only hilarious discoveries. Let absurdity reign!
Declare a Random Dress-Up Day: Who needs a holiday? Institute "Wacky Hat Wednesday" at work (or just for your video calls) or "Throwback Thursday" where you rock an outfit from another decade. It’s a simple way to spark smiles and conversations.
Curate Your Own "Play Jar": Grab some slips of paper and jot down simple, playful actions: "Sing loudly (and badly) to one full song," "Build a magnificent pillow fort," "Draw something using your non-dominant hand," "Try walking backward for 1 minute." Pull one out daily or whenever you need a boost.
Power Up with Playful Reflection: Take a moment to journal or simply ponder: When did you last laugh so hard you cried? What games did you adore as a kid? If your inner child could plan your afternoon, what would they choose? Connecting with these memories reminds you what joy feels like.
Dive in. Try one. Try them all. You’ll quickly discover that inviting play back into your life isn't frivolous; it's fundamental. It's where ideas loosen up, stress melts away, and your unique brand of creativity finds room to breathe and flourish.
So, go on. Give yourself permission. What will you play today?