Play is a frivolous pastime only to be indulged once the real work of the world is done. Or so we tend to think. But what if play is actually a key driver of progress? Simon Worrall
When I mention the word play, maybe you find yourself agreeing with the first part of the above quote. My problem is that I very rarely decide that the real work of the world is done, so play becomes some far-off thing that I never get around to doing. I’m realising that if I continue to see things this way, I am missing out on something fundamental in my life and leadership.
Play forms a fundamental part of child development, but, for some reason, we have learnt to suppress it in our adult development. This is especially true as we take on positions of leadership and responsibility.
Play is an activity where children show their remarkable ability for exploration, imagination and decision-making. While play is often described as 'children's work', it is intensely enjoyable for them. www.startingblocks.gov.au
Play is not only enjoyable; it is part of how we learn and grow. Play is needed for innovation, creativity, and having enough space in our brain to ask questions and seek creative solutions. Play includes both enjoyable things outside of work and boredom, open time with no fixed idea of something to do.
A member of our leadership cohort expressed to me recently her belief that right now ‘Project Nexus’ is the Safest Place for her to Play. This is powerful, as we are seeking to build a community that gives each other permission to play and to listen, try, fail, learn and grow.
Project Nexus was birthed out of the belief that God is raising up a new type of leader. A leader ready to courageously imagine what God's heart might be in an ever-changing world.
The reality is that God is always doing a new thing. Are we positioning ourselves to see it?
“Forget the past - it’s getting in your way. Your eyes are fixed on the past, and you can’t see what I am doing today. Do you not know that I am the Lord your God, that I am always doing a new thing? Do you not perceive it?” Isaiah 43: 18
In turn, the safest place to play is actually in God. We know the author and creator of all things. He is always doing a new thing, He is inviting us to join him, to be curious, to wonder and to play.
“Surely all God’s people…like to play. ”
John Muir - American Naturalist
“Play matters because people matter. It reminds us of our interdependence and gives us a chance to really see other people. And in turn, to be really and truly seen. ”
Jill Vialet - Founder of Playworks
“Creative people are curious, flexible, persistent, and independent with a tremendous spirit of adventure and a love of play. ”
Henri Matisse - French painter
“It’s the things we play with and the people who help us play that make a great difference in our lives. ”
Fred Rogers - American television personality
