Play vs Playful: Can I have both?
Play is a concept often misunderstood.
It’s regarded as something for children or something that’s not serious enough for space in an adult’s life. This piece is for those who might have heard the buzz on play in the media lately (see this article and this article for example), but aren’t sure where it fits in their lives.
When you finish reading these quick words, you’ll be able to identify the difference between incorporating play in our lives and being playful.
How do I know all this? I have written two books on play — one for educators (see here) and one for general humans (see here), and presented multiple lectures on the power of play.
Play
Play is a verb. It’s the doing of something. But in the English language, it has so many nuances.
I’m going to play with the idea. (grapple with/ question/ seek understanding)
I’m going to play with the app. (click around)
Let’s go play outside. (Engage in fun experiences)
Stop playing. (Messing with/ bothering/ teasing/ testing boundaries)
Want to play? (Generally refers to physical activity or musical performance)
I’m just playing. (Exploring/ considering/ testing)
According to APA, play includes “activities that appear to be freely sought and pursued solely for the sake of individual or group enjoyment.” Play as a physical behavior has so many benefits. In addition to physical benefits, play is a catalyst for cognitive, emotional, physical, and social development.
Playful
In contrast, playful is an adjective (or adverb, depending on its use).
The choice to be playful indicates a state of mind. People who are playful are sociable, curious, imaginative, spontaneous, and/or funny. Anthony Debenedet, author and medical doctor, writes about these attributes as playful intelligences.
Sociability
Wonder
Imagination
Spontaneity
Humor
Both?
As I seek to grow in my work and get the most out of life, I seek out ways to incorporate both play and playfulness in my life.
The beauty of this intention is that it’s a choice. And there are SO MANY CHOICES! I might enjoy reading fiction as a form of play, while my co-author and colleague Jed Dearybury enjoys painting rocks. I kayak, he takes long walks.
We have different play personalities, but there is enough overlap and difference to inspire and challenge each other to grow. At any time we are talking or working together, one might play jokes on the other, and one might be spontaneous and imaginative. We are both engaging in play while being playful in our approach — both to the act of play as well as our interaction.
So, yes. You can (and should!) have/ be both.
As a play ambassador for the US Play Coalition, I’m passionate about sharing the power of play for wellness and overall happy lives.
