Creativity is often thought of as something we need to work hard at. We picture long hours, focus, and determination as the keys to producing our best work. But what if there was another, often overlooked ingredient that could unlock our creative potential? That ingredient is play.

When we allow ourselves to engage in playful activities, we tap into a sense of joy and curiosity that can lead to unexpected breakthroughs. Play isn’t just for children or vacation time—it’s a powerful tool that can enhance your creativity, whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or simply someone looking to live more creatively.

Let’s explore five ways how you can incorporate the power of play into your life all and how it can breathe new life into your creativity.

1. Schedule Playtime into Your Routine

The first key to unlocking creativity through play is making time for it. While this might sound counterintuitive—scheduling play—it’s essential if you want to integrate play into your daily life. Just as you would schedule time for work, exercise, or relaxation, give yourself permission to schedule time to play.

This could be as simple as setting aside 15 minutes a day to engage in a playful activity that brings you joy. For me, it’s playing the piano, not to practice, but simply to play whatever comes to mind. I’ve found that even this small act of play has a ripple effect, making me feel more energized and open to ideas for the rest of the day.

Pro Tip:

• Schedule 10-15 minutes of play every day. Whether it’s painting, playing a game, or experimenting with a new hobby, let yourself engage without pressure or a specific goal.

2. Embrace Childlike Wonder

When we were children, the world was full of possibility. Everything felt new and exciting, and we approached each day with curiosity. As adults, it’s easy to fall into routines that dull this sense of wonder. But tapping into that childlike perspective can be a game changer for creativity.

One way to reignite our childlike sense of wonder is to try something new. Whether it’s visiting a new place, engaging in a new activity, or simply shifting your perspective on an everyday task, stepping out of your routine can lead to fresh ideas.

Pro Tip:

• Take a day trip to a new location, try a class you’ve never taken before, or even change your daily commute. Shaking things up can open you to new possibilities.

3. Play with Others

Creativity thrives in collaboration. While many creative pursuits can be solo endeavors, engaging with others in playful ways can amplify your creativity. Whether it’s through collaborative projects, group games, or simply sharing ideas with friends, playing with others sparks inspiration in ways you may not expect.

Hosting or attending creative gatherings can be a great way to embrace this. Whether you’re sharing songs at a songwriter circle or brainstorming with colleagues, the synergy of group play can lead to unexpected breakthroughs.

Pro Tip:

• Organize a creative gathering with friends or colleagues. Make it lighthearted and fun—there’s no need to be perfect. The goal is to spark ideas through shared play.

4. Use Play as a Reset Button

When you’re deep into a project and feel stuck, taking a break to play can act as a reset button for your brain. Play allows you to step away from the pressure of productivity, offering your mind a chance to relax and reset. When you return to your work, you’ll often find that your creativity has been reignited.

Incorporating playful breaks throughout the day can prevent burnout and keep your mind fresh. Even something as simple as a quick walk, a game on your phone, or tossing a Frisbee outside can have a big impact.

Pro Tip:

• Whenever you feel mentally stuck, step away from your work for a playful reset. You’ll likely return to your project with fresh ideas and renewed energy.

5. Combine Play with Learning

Another way to incorporate play into your life is to blend it with learning. Engaging in new activities that challenge your brain in a playful way can help you see things differently and inspire creativity. Whether it’s learning a new language, taking up a new hobby, or exploring a new field, the combination of play and learning is a powerful duo for creativity.

For example, playing strategy games can improve problem-solving skills, while creative activities like painting or improv acting can sharpen your ability to think on your feet.

Pro Tip:

• Try learning something new through a playful activity. This could be a board game that challenges your strategic thinking, a creative workshop, or even taking an online course on a non-work subject you’re passionate about.

Final Thoughts: The Power of Play for a Creative Life

As we step into the fall, consider how play can remain a central part of your daily routine. Creativity doesn’t have to be all about discipline and hard work—it can also be about joy, exploration, and fun. Whether you’re scheduling playful breaks into your day, collaborating with others, or embracing a sense of wonder, the power of play is a valuable tool to help fuel your creative life.

If you enjoyed these tips, be sure to check out my podcast Creative Space for more inspiration on how to live creatively, both in your work and everyday life. Until then, let’s keep the spirit of creative play alive and see where it takes us!

Photo by Evgeniy Alyoshin on Unsplash