Is play the new work?

This week, we’re looking at the business case for?play — how it supercharges?learning, how to get into a 'flow' (or play) state, and how to create more playful cultures at work.

The business case for play?

Research indicates that children experience psychological and developmental benefits through play, however adults benefit too. More and more businesses are tapping into the wider so-called ‘kidult’ trend - driven by nostalgia, fandom and the mindfulness movement - ?to not just boost creativity, but also improve teamwork and reduce absenteeism.? No one knows this better than Lego’s CEO Neils B Christiansen. With a Lego campus in Billund that features lego bricks in the middle of the boardroom table, and a mini-golf course on the roof, Neils tells the BBC that “playing in the physical world allows you to acquire competencies or capabilities that will really serve you for life; around creativity, social well-being, social connections and problem solving.”

Play your way to a flow state?

Achieving a flow state can transform how you work and learn. Flow is a play state that involves effortless engagement, where time seems to fly, distractions fade, and peak performance becomes possible. This TED-Ed video explains how you can access this flow state for higher productivity, enhanced learning, and creativity. Here are some of the major tips it mentions:?

• Choose tasks you find meaningful or enjoyable
• Balance the challenge with your skill level
• Set clear, achievable goals
• Create a distraction-free environment
• Break tasks into manageable segments
• Avoid focusing too much on reaching flow itself

Differentiating play from forced fun

Mixing work and play at the office might sound tricky, but Michelle Lee from IDEO North America believes it’s a game changer. She links play to curiosity, creativity, and innovation, helping to free employees from the pressure of finding the "right" answer. By introducing "play dates" and encouraging activities that balance challenge and skill, workplaces can foster creativity and boost productivity. In this interview, they share ideas on creating playful environments for improved team cohesion and confidence to share ideas and tackle problems in innovative ways, while avoiding the pitfalls of "forced fun."

Play to supercharge your learning

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According to HelpGuide, engaging in playful activities, no matter your age, refreshes your mind, reduces stress, and enhances creativity. When you play, you silence your inner critic, making it easier to see problems from new perspectives and come up with innovative solutions. Playing:

• Improves brain function.?
• Stimulates the mind and boosts creativity.
• Keeps you functional under stress.
• Encourages teamwork.
• Helps you see problems in new ways.

Supercharge your learner journey with a couple of free downloads from QM

1. Getting creative with the learner journey | The QM guide
2. Inspirational artwork | Make learning fun again