Let’s Play!

As adults, we do not always make time to play. Somewhere along the way, we start to treat play as something for kids. We watch children build worlds with toys, invent characters and disappear into their imaginations. It looks effortless.

Play is not just for childhood. It is part of being human. When we make space for play, we give ourselves time to have fun, deliberately. It is a chance to feel light, curious, present and connected. This matters, especially at times when life feels busy or heavy.

 

The joy of movement

I talk about pickleball a lot because it brings me real joy. I see it as an opportunity to play with others for sheer enjoyment. I get to move, laugh, connect and be fully present.

Years ago, I used to take a trampoline exercise class, early on Sunday mornings. It was exhilarating. Jumping and bouncing felt like freedom. I always left lighter, I laughed and was energized in a way that went beyond fitness. I felt like a kid again.

For me, play is different from going to the gym. The gym can be focused, structured and goal-oriented. Play is about enjoyment, curiosity and being in the moment. It supports our emotional and mental health by giving us space to breathe, to laugh and to remember we are allowed to enjoy our lives.

Making time to play

The challenge is that play rarely just happens in adult life. We have to choose it. We have to make space for it in our schedule and in our thinking.

If you’re wondering what play could look like for you, here are a few questions to explore and answer for yourself. These questions are to help you notice where play already exists in your life, what it gives you and how you might invite a little more of it in.

1.     When did I feel genuinely playful recently, even if only for a few minutes? What was I doing?

2.     What kind of play brings out the best in me right now (movement, creativity, games, humour, adventure, quiet play)?

3.     Where is play already present in my everyday life (music, cooking, walking, conversations, hobbies)? How can I notice it more and do it more on purpose?

4.     What activity makes me lose track of time in a good way? What does that tell me about what I need more of?

5.     After I play, what shifts in me? What do I feel in my body, how is my mood, what is my mindset?

6.     What helps me move from I should be doing something productive to I’m allowed to enjoy this?

7.     If play had a bigger role in my life in 2026 and beyond, what might change for me?

8.     Imagine a week where play is normal, not extra. What does that week include, and what time of day is easiest for me to be playful?

9.     What is one playful thing I can schedule this week that feels realistic and fun? Do I want to do it alone or invite someone to join me?

10.  Who do I feel most relaxed and playful around? What is it about them that makes it easy and could they be a play partner or accountability buddy?

11.  What would I love to try if I knew I couldn’t do it wrong?

12.  What simple ritual can I use to protect play time (calendar block, weekly plan, monthly date)?

13.  How will I celebrate my play successes?

An invitation

Start small. Choose one question and answer it. Then pick a playful moment you can create this week. It doesn’t have to be long, five/ten minutes counts.

I’d love to hear about your play activity. Send me an email: aderonke@abwilsonconsulting.com