The lifting power of play
“It is a serious thing just to be alive on this fresh morning in this broken world.” – Mary Oliver
Have you been feeling a little too serious lately? The news, work deadlines, never-ending to-do lists—it’s all a bit much, right? With so much going on, it’s easy to forget how to play. But here’s a little secret: playfulness isn’t just for kids or weekends—it’s for everyone, and it’s one of the best ways to bring joy and connection into your life.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. "Ashley, how am I supposed to be playful when the world feels so heavy?" I get it. But that’s exactly why we need playfulness now more than ever. It’s not about pretending everything is fine or ignoring the tough stuff—it’s about finding small, light-hearted moments that remind us life doesn’t have to be all serious, all the time.
Playfulness matters, especially when things are tough.
Being playful isn’t just about having fun—it’s about shifting your perspective. It opens the door to creativity, helps you solve problems in new ways, and creates space for laughter, even when things are challenging. Plus, it can bring people together in a way that feels natural and joyful.
When we get playful, we’re giving ourselves permission to breathe—to take a break from the weight of the world and reconnect with the things (and people) that make us smile. And trust me, that little shift can make all the difference in how we handle the serious stuff, too.
I invite you to seek out ways to bring more playfulness into your everyday life.
You don’t need to book a vacation or throw a party to bring playfulness into your life (though, let’s be real, both of those sound great). You can start small, with simple, playful habits that fit into your everyday routine. Here’s an easy-to-remember guide to add some fun into your life—just think **"LAUGH"**!
L – Lighten Up
Don’t take yourself too seriously—learn to laugh at life’s little quirks and mishaps. The next time you trip over your own feet or forget why you walked into a room, take a moment to chuckle instead of rolling your eyes. Laughing at yourself takes the edge off and brings some much-needed levity.
A – Approach with Curiosity
Playfulness and curiosity go hand in hand. Approach your day with a “What if?” attitude. What if I try something new for lunch? What if I walk a different route? What if I dance in my living room like no one’s watching (because, hey, no one is)? When you let yourself be curious, life gets a little more playful—and a lot more fun.
U – Use Playful Language
Whether it’s cracking a silly joke, making up a funny nickname, or turning a mundane conversation into something light-hearted, don’t be afraid to let your words get a little whimsical. Throw in a pun or a playful comment next time you’re chatting with someone—it might just shift the energy for both of you.
G – Go on Mini Adventures
Okay, we’re not all hopping on planes for grand adventures every week. But we can bring a sense of adventure into everyday moments. Try a new hobby, explore a part of your town you’ve never been to, or turn an ordinary task into a game. Challenge yourself to find joy in the small, unexpected places.
H – Hang Out with Playful People
Playfulness is contagious. Next time you’re with friends, family, or even coworkers, try lightening the mood with a playful comment or activity. Suggest a game night, start a friendly competition, or simply make space for laughter. When we bring playfulness to others, we invite them to loosen up and join in the fun.
In a serious world, give yourself the gift of a playful heart.
In a world that can feel overwhelmingly serious, playfulness isn’t just a luxury—it’s a way to stay grounded and connected to what really matters. It’s about giving yourself permission to *enjoy* life, even when things are challenging.
So, next time you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders, pause and ask yourself: *Where can I bring a little playfulness into this moment?* You might be surprised at how much lighter things feel when you do.
Want to connect? I’m here!