You’re Never Too Old to Play

It’s ironic but true: if you want to do your best work, you must make time to play. You can’t continually draw from the creative well without filling it up. (Note: The audio version is at the end of the post. If you can’t see the audio player, click here.)

What does it mean to “play”? It means doing something just because it’s fun, and because it renews your creative energy. Your work should be enjoyable, of course, but play is a different matter. Play exists for its own sake, and has the added benefit of recharging your batteries.

Here are a few ways I love to play:

Toys: My son Ben, who is 10 years old, has loved Legos for years. One year his big Christmas gift was the Lego Death Star. It was an absolute blast putting it together with him (with some help from my nephew). I also love puzzles and games of all kinds.

Movies & TV: Entertainment can definitely be a waste of time, but it can also be a wellspring of creative inspiration. I regularly make time to watch great movies and TV series. There are many more than I have time to watch, so I only choose the ones I really want to see. Click the link below for a list of movies that will spark your creativity.

10 Movies That Will Blow Your Creative Mind

Working with my hands: One summer a few years ago I decided to build a treehouse for my son. I didn’t have a clue what I was doing, but I was determined to learn. Before the summer was out, it was mostly done. The result was a very cool treehouse with windows, a trapdoor, skylight, and pulley system. I do a lot of computer work for my teaching job and my writing, so building things is a way to recharge my creative batteries.

The treehouse I built for Ben. You can’t see it in this pic, but it has a skylight and a trapdoor. This summer I’m finishing the second deck and adding a bridge from the main section.

Your list will be different, but you must find ways to play and continually light your creative fire. Find a hobby or something fun that’s not related to your main work. Better yet, find something you can enjoy with your family or friends.

Bottom line: You’re never too old to play!

What are your favorite ways to play and have fun?