Have you ever snapped a snapdragon?
You gently press the sides and watch its ‘mouth’ open and shut. They’re fun to play puppets with – that’s if you haven’t forgotten how to be playful.
It can be a challenge when things are tough and your responsibilities considerable.
Still, play is not just for kids.
If you can find a way to play at work, chances are you’ll be more creative, a better problem solver and less stressed.
So do yourself a favour and find a way to play.
If it’s been a while, choose from one of the four ways Dr René Proyer of the University of Halle (Germany) found adults play:
- You could fool around with others
- Be light-hearted and not worry about the consequences
- Play intellectually with thoughts and ideas
- Be whimsical (like snapping a snapdragon).
Work is work… and you can have fun while you’re there. All it takes is remembering to play.