“It is a happy talent to know how to play.”~Ralph Waldo Emerson
One of the greatest tragedies of life is that as we grow older we forget how to play. Well, at least for a little while. I look around me and notice a number of septuagenarians and octogenarians who seem to have remembered the joy of play – like my mother who can’t seem to send enough emojis and who dances at every chance she can. I don’t think we should have to wait that long.
Playing makes life more fun. Playing makes relationships – and conversations, even difficult conversations – easier. Playing makes creativity soar. Playing makes our days more enjoyable. Playing makes work enjoyable…and often more productive.
Yet we forget how to play. Or we think we’re not allowed to. Or not supposed to. Ralph Waldo Emerson thought – and spoke – differently. I happen to agree with him. When I can approach anything and everything, even the more onerous tasks, with a smile on my face or maybe only in my heart, I have more energy and enthusiasm for what lies ahead.
Play can be raucous – and should be raucous – at times. Play can be a quiet laugh or a gentle grin. Play can be an attitude of openness and fun, and inclusion of others.
It is a happy talent to know how to play. Let’s play more.
Where and how do you play?
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If you enjoyed this post, you can read more like it in our book, The Power of Thoughtful Leadership: 101 Minutes To Being the Leader You Want To Be, available on Amazon.
For someone to play with, contact Lisa at lkohn@chatsworthconsulting.com.
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