Play and Rest
Guidepost 7 – Cultivating Play and Rest, Letting go of Exhaustion as a Status Symbol and Productivity as Self-Worth
The concept of play has never been too far from me at any given time. I’ve always been up for something fun. I have shirked cleaning and laundry for better entertainment many times in my life. Sometimes, even to a fault, I admit.
I taught P.E. for ten years. I am so thankful for that time in my life for many reasons. One of the biggest reasons is, I found a pack of people that I still have by my side and am so thankful for.
When you walked into my gym, this quote would greet you:
“We do not stop playing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop playing.” Benjamin Franklin
I have to admit, cultivating play has never been a problem for me. I have, however, had some years of being in survival mode. Play and rest, for me, was just not possible. Every bit of my effort was channeled into surviving that day, one day at a time. Jaw set, shoulders tightened, bracing against my heart and mind for that day.
I think our society leans toward productivity as a sign of worth. I have been asked before, “What have you done productive?” Sometimes, the answer is a big old “Nuthin.”
I don’t clean house very often. I’d much rather do something fun.
I think this concept is very difficult for some people. Especially “J’s.” (Meyers Briggs last letter) I am a P – a WAY P. Which means planning things out makes my skin crawl. Even “overproductivity” can make me feel stifled.
Getting play and rest is such a vital part of life. For everyone. Even the planners. I don’t think we can function well on exhaustion and productivity. Sure, we might have a large bank account. But, are we having any fun? How are you feeling? Are you rested?
I think so many of us take life a bit too seriously. And, that’s a shame. I think having a playful spirit can be such a joy, not only to yourself, but to the ones around you.
I’d like to encourage you to take a moment today. If you are twisted tight, I’d like for you to find a spot in the sunshine, just for a moment, this afternoon – out of the wind. Close your eyes and just breathe for a moment. Go talk to that someone you know who lightens your heart.
Go find something fun to do. Yes, fun.
Brown, B. (2010). The Gifts of Imperfection. Hazelden Publishing. "Cultivating Play and Rest, Letting Go of Exhaustion as a Status Symbol and Productivity as Self-Worth."
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