Do You Play?

In a recent interview with Melissa Bowen discussing Brené Brown’s ideas for wholehearted living, the topic of play came up.

Now play often feels like four-letter word to me. We are urged to make the time for play and, as I admit in the video, I often wonder what the heck that means. I associate play with children’s games and activities, laughter and silliness. What does play mean when you’re an adult?

I pride myself on being productive and responsible, driven and focused. The only time I really feel like I’m playing now is when I’m wrestling or chasing our puppy Marley. Or enjoying a card or board game.
Melissa helped me be less literal and understand play as any activity with no agenda. WHAAAAT?

That definition opens up a lot more options! By that standard, taking a walk in my neighborhood is play. Sitting by the pool with a magazine is play. Catching up with a friend over lunch is play.

Ok, I guess I DO play more than I thought!

YOUR TURN: What does play mean to you? How do YOU play?