It has been a while since a colleague raised their eyebrows at me and my light-hearted disposition to work. But make no mistake, work itself is serious stuff but it doesn’t have to be boring and dull if you tackle it with the right mindset.
The idea that work should be considered as play might seem counterintuitive at first glance. We typically associate play with leisure and work with productivity and output. However, there are many compelling reasons to consider work as play, and doing so can lead to a more enjoyable and fulfilling work experience.
When we think of play, we think of activities that we enjoy and look forward to doing; the same can be true for work if we approach it with a positive mindset. By finding ways to make work enjoyable and engaging, we can change our perception of work from something that we have to do to something that we really want to do.
Albert Einstein is often quoted as saying, “Play is the highest form of research.” This statement suggests that Einstein believed that play was not only enjoyable but also an important part of the learning and discovery process. Einstein also believed that work and play were not mutually exclusive, and that one could approach work with a playful and creative mindset.
In addition to his famous quote, Einstein also wrote about the importance of play in his personal life. He enjoyed playing the violin, sailing, and hiking, and he often credited his hobbies with helping him to think creatively and come up with new ideas. Einstein believed that play was a way to stimulate the imagination and that it could lead to new insights and discoveries.
Play is also often associated with creativity and innovation; when we engage in play, we are more likely to experiment and try new things, which can lead to new ideas and insights. Similarly, when we approach work with a playful mindset, we are more likely to come up with creative solutions to problems and find new ways to approach complex and simple tasks.
Play fosters intrinsic motivation such that when we engage in play, we do it because we enjoy it, not because we expect to get a reward or avoid punishment. Similarly, when we approach work as play, we are more likely to be intrinsically motivated to do our best possible work. We are not just working for a paycheck or promotion, but because we enjoy the work itself.
Many considered play a social activity, one that can help build relationships and foster a sense of community. Similarly, when we approach work with a playful mindset, we are more likely to build positive relationships with our colleagues and enjoy working together. This can lead to a more supportive and collaborative work environment.
Play is a great way to reduce stress and promote relaxation, many a keen sportsman will take to the golf course or the outdoors to destress. Similarly, when we approach work with a playful mindset, we are more likely to feel less stressed and more relaxed. This can lead to a more positive work environment and improved overall well-being.
There are many reasons why work should be considered play.
By finding ways to make work enjoyable and engaging, we can approach work with a positive mindset and enjoy the work itself.
Approaching work as play can foster creativity, build relationships, reduce stress, and promote intrinsic motivation.
As we spend a significant portion of our lives at work, it is essential to find ways to make work more enjoyable and fulfilling. By considering work as play, we can achieve this and create a more positive and productive work experience.