All children play. Nobody teaches them to play - they are doing it naturally and instinctively, obeying urges with come from within their souls. But as we grow up, we often get an idea that playfulness doesn't fit into our adult lives anymore. We get down to business, to "the serious stuff". Our life becomes mostly a predictable routine. Sometimes we feel that a heavy burden of responsibility upon our shoulders gives us no chances to live differently.
Now we come to a certain problem: we are too tied up by restrictions and by self-restrictions. We wish to succeed in life, but success in our rapidly changing world is almost impossible without a healthy dose of creativity. We might try different schemes to boost our creative expression, but they provide us only with meager results. Something is missing. What is that? Our playfulness: our childish freedom to look for new ways, to create our own rules, and to disregard limitations.
Many successful people attributed their success to playfulness, and it would be wise for us to listen to them. "My wealth has come from playfulness. I have seen those who worship suffering create a world of suffering. This proves they are right. I have seen those who worship joy create a world of joy. This proves that they are right", says Brad Jensen.
We need to rediscover the art of playing - to give ourselves freedom to play. Let us remember what we liked to do when we were kids. Perhaps, we still play in our memories and fantasies. So, why don't we make them real for some time? What we are afraid of? If we really want to do so, even in the midst of our busy life we will find a spot where we can play. To play freely, with no thought of gain - just for the sake of enjoyment.
"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up", said Pablo Picasso.
As we play, we release in our life a flow of creative energy which will ultimately affect all areas of our life, even those which are not directly related to our play. But here is the important hint we need to remember: let us not expect direct and immediate results.
Don"t start playing with a thought, "I will play for half an hour, and it will give me a new idea for tomorrow's business meeting", or "I will play for one week, and in will increase my work productivity up to 30%". It never works this way. If you are thinking along these lines, you are trying to fool yourself. You still act at the Adult level, not allowing the Child to express freely. Chances are, nothing significant will happen, and you will be disappointed.
Just play and have fun! Things will happen with you - but they will happen in wonderful and totally unpredictable ways. You won"t ever know how and then they will happen. And happiness you will experience is one of the greatest things in itself. Isn't it true?
Finally, remember that it is never too late. For instance, my dad always had an artistic mindset, yet he started to paint on canvas only after he turned 60 years old. He is still a beginner, but he does really well. And although he does not read in English, I would like to say to him through this article: "Thank you, dad, you are a real inspiration for me and for all those who know you".
