We spend much of our time working, achieving, striving, and being productive. This gives us a sense of value, meaning, and purpose, but we focus on doing and not much on being. We shortchange ourselves by only valuing what we can measure.

If we were to play as hard as we work (not the “work hard and play hard” motto, which defeats the purpose), we would find more joy and latitude in being. Creativity, inspiration, and many “aha” moments come from spontaneous acts of joy and silliness. Play lifts us from boring preconceived pathways to wide-open roads we can climb and explore. How do we value and prioritize play every day?