When we think of play we are often taken back to a simpler time, when life was about having fun and enjoying ourselves. Somehow, in the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s all too easy to get caught up in the daily grind, leaving little room for playfulness and spontaneity. We’ve lost that playful mindset.

Play isn’t reserved just for kids or leisure time.

It’s a fundamental human need that enriches our lives in profound ways. By carving out space for play amidst our busy schedules, we tap into a wellspring of joy, curiosity, and vitality.

Without play, you are leaving so much of what you’re capable of untapped. 

I’ve learned over the years that creating space for play doesn’t mean neglecting responsibilities. Play allows us to tap into our inspirations, making us more engaged, focused, creative, and productive. 

Play for adults is critical in our stressful go-go-go lives. Play has been shown to release endorphins. And it can even help to keep us young and feeling energetic. 

One of the most underestimated benefits of play is improved brain function. 

Play stimulates various regions of the brain involved in cognitive processes such as memory, attention, and learning. By challenging our minds through playful activities, we can enhance cognitive function and maintain mental sharpness as we age.

Studies show that play improves memory and stimulates the growth of the cerebral cortex. Play has also been shown to trigger the secretion of BDNF, a substance essential for the growth of brain cells.

I could go on with all the benefits of play. But the most important thing I want you to take away today, is how to give yourself permission to play.

There is one thing holding  you back from embracing play and infusing it into your daily routines – and that, my friend is …. Fear of Judgment.

Your fear of of judgment may look or sound like one of these:

👉 You worry that others will perceive playful behavior as childish, unproductive, or even irresponsible. As a result, you feel pressured to conform to societal norms and expectations. This suppresses your natural inclination to engage in playful activities.

👉 You hesitate to express yourself authentically or engage in activities that bring you  joy. You may worry about appearing silly or immature in the eyes of others. This leads to self-consciousness and inhibition. 

👉 You become reluctant to participate in playful games or activities, avoiding situations where you might be perceived as “not serious enough.” You constantly second-guess your  behavior in social settings.

👉 You’ve internalized beliefs about the importance of productivity and seriousness in adulthood. Society often values productivity and achievement over leisure and play. This leads you to prioritize work and responsibilities at the expense of your own happiness and well-being.

👉 Past experiences of rejection or ridicule for playful behavior. This often reinforces the fear of judgment, creating a cycle of avoidance and self-censorship.

So what are you to do to finally crack open your playful mindset? 

Overcoming this fear involves challenging negative beliefs, building self-confidence, and surrounding yourself with supportive and accepting people who encourage play without judgment. 

The fastest and most surefire way to beat this fear is to prove it wrong. 

Start playing.

See what happens.

You don’t need permission from anyone except yourself to play.

Play is part of your self-care. 

Prioritize it. Act on it. And stop worrying about what others think. 

It’s your time to embrace the childlike curiosity that still lives deep inside you. Navigate all that life offers with a playful mindset and notice how things change for the better for you.