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When the challenge seems too much and situations get stressful, it may be time to embrace some serious play.
I must admit, I wasn’t a huge soccer fan. But I’m totally into World Cup summer. It is riveting to watch the world’s best players and most passionate fans pouring everything into the sport they love. They come to play, which is both a serious test and a joyful game.
Play takes you deeper into the moment, brings out your best talents, thinking, and instincts, and unlocks abilities you may not even know you have. And at its best, it’s super fun!
When did we adopt this idea that we should struggle through responsibilities and assignments? Put your nose to the grindstone. Maybe we should prioritize play.
Gamify your work, especially the tough and tedious stuff. Keep score. Develop a style or signature move. Find ways to make it more fun for you and others. Then, everything you do will be infused with playful spirit and will likely be more interesting and successful.
And even when you’re in the trenches, take short play breaks as rewards to lighten the mood and lift the energy. Move your body. Test your aim, or mental agility. Then jump back in with a fresh perspective.
Have playful conversations, becoming more artful in how you listen well and express yourself.
Play with customers and teammates as well as family and friends. And as you do, notice how it shapes your relationships.
I’ve generally found as long as we take the responsibility seriously and value others, the more fun we have, the more effective we can be. So incorporate some serious play into your life and profession and it might just become your super power.
The audio for this week’s coaching video is located under the “Get Inspired” tab in the Positive Playlist . You can subscribe to the podcast and listen to other weekly messages for improving all aspects of your life. Until next week, stay Off Balance On Purpose.
