We've all heard that play can help us think more clearly and creatively on the job. But how exactly do we adopt a playful mindset amidst deadlines and daily tasks? According to Piera Gelardi, co-founder of Refinery29 and author of the upcoming book The Playful Way (available in April), it all starts with understanding your personal "play mode." By tapping into your unique style, you can approach work with greater curiosity and innovation.
In her insightful book, Gelardi identifies six distinct play-at-work styles. Let's explore each one and discover how you can bring more playfulness to your professional life.
1. The Curious Quester
Strength: Asks great questions.
Playful Approach: Transform your projects into experiments. Instead of viewing setbacks as failures, treat them as valuable data points. This mindset encourages exploration and learning, turning every challenge into an opportunity for growth.
2. The Mundane Alchemist
Strength: Makes boring work engaging.
Playful Approach: Inject creativity into the mundane by giving meetings catchy names or turning tedious tasks into games. For instance, create a point system for completing routine activities or challenge colleagues to finish tasks within a set time. This not only makes work more enjoyable but can also boost productivity.
3. The Visionary Dreamer
Strength: Has a big-picture imagination.
Playful Approach: Foster bold brainstorming sessions by asking, "What would need to be true for this to happen?" This question encourages thinking beyond current constraints and sparks innovative ideas. Embrace your imaginative side to envision new possibilities and inspire your team.
4. The Joyful Jester
Strength: Humor and social connection.
Playful Approach: Lighten the mood with well-timed jokes or humorous GIFs. Finding moments of levity can help relieve stress and foster a positive work environment. By making others laugh, you create connections and encourage a more collaborative and enjoyable workplace.
5. The Expressive Creator
Strength: Storytelling and visual thinking.
Playful Approach: Bring ideas to life by asking, "How might we sketch this idea?" Use mood boards, metaphors, and visual aids to explain strategies and concepts. This approach not only makes complex information more digestible but also sparks creativity and engagement among team members.
6. The Wonder Wanderer
Strength: Pattern recognition.
Playful Approach: Develop a keen eye for detail by noticing what others might miss. Help your team see the big picture by identifying patterns and connections that aren't immediately obvious. This ability to see beyond the surface can lead to innovative solutions and a deeper understanding of challenges.
Your playful strengths are not distractions from serious work—they are essential tools that enhance your performance. By embracing your unique play style, you can bring fresh perspectives, creativity, and joy to your professional life. As Gelardi suggests, play isn't just for children; it's a powerful way to approach problems, connect with others, and achieve success in the workplace.
So, go ahead and discover your play mode. You might just find that a little bit of play can lead to a lot more productivity and satisfaction at work.