Day 11: A Sled

Have some fun!

Photo by Andres Siimon on Unsplash

In Day 3, I talked about a podcast episode where my cohost and I asked people on the street how they felt about the holidays. We thought people would jump at the chance to tell us stories of wonder and twinkling lights, but we were met with blank stares.

There was a strong sense of “holidays are for kids” in the air. It was hard for adults to remember the magical moments, much less feel the excitement.

Most of my research centers on play. My dissertation focused on hide-and-seek play among preschool children. I’ve worked as a consultant for parks and recreation departments as they revamp their city playgrounds. And I even include play and imagination in my coaching. I’m a big fan of play.

So believe me when I say that adults need play, too!

I don’t mean our after-work networking happy hour (where you feel obligated). I mean true, unbridled play. Play recharges us, lifts our spirits, and reduces stress. It also helps to make our brains more adaptable.

When was the last time you woke up early and collapsed into a fresh pile of snow? Or painted/wrote something just for yourself, without worry about what others might think?

Go make a snowman. Sled down a hill. Catch a snowflake on your tongue. Go have fun!

Not sure where to start? Here are some prompts to get you started…