Why You Should Play Like A Child

By: Muhammed Moshood

When we were young, one of my most exciting times was playing, especially building sandcastles and dancing in the rain.

Making our homes and a few other not-so-pretty stuff were delights and enjoyable experiences. Whether our endeavour worked or not, we kept trying until we could push no more – until another time. We had no pressure; no worries!

In those moments of building our cherished homes, we collaborated and organised ourselves (we were all kids) and carefully moulded what we fantasised about living in.

Even though they’re mostly smaller and could barely house an arm or a leg, we still built and occasionally powered them with some lightly used bulbs, amongst other design elements.

Those were days of lesser or no apprehension other than the fear of injection or medicines when we fell sick. Don’t ask me; I’ll be shy to say much.

Flip it over…

Another time. Another people.

A famous Nigerian street lingo, “Adulthood na scam” (loosely translates to “Adulthood is stressful”), I believe, was first referenced in a song titled “Adulthood Anthem”, otherwise known as “Adulthood na scam” by LADE.

Indeed, adulting comes with attending responsibilities, chiefly social and economic. More often than not, you tend to be consumed by the struggle for survival – forgoing what used to or can transport you to impeccable happiness.

The reality before all of us is this: life is hard; far harder for people without jobs or those struggling in theirs, ailing finances, businesses, or even health. It can be worse for those without genuine love life or supportive friendships.

Why Playing is Good, Better If Like A Child.

You’ve probably heard the cliche: all work and no play make (insert your name) a dull human.

Unlike my friends and me in those days, you do not have to build sandcastles or play in the rain or woods before you enjoy yourself. Wait, if you can, why not?

Have hobbies? Don’t let them die. Life is fleeting, and so is probably your happiness.

The energy you exude and, by extension, the quality of your life – I dare say – defines you, not the quality of your work. In other words, every other aspect of your life depends on your quality of existence.

This is why psychologists say that playing is not just fun. It can also relieve stress by triggering endorphins, improving brain function and memory, stimulating the mind and creativity, improving relationships and connections, and keeping you young and energetic.

Playing like a child can also help you reconnect with your inner self and tap into your (evading) imagination. It reminds you not to take life too seriously and to find joy in simple things.

While you work to make ends meet, play, my guy (insert your name). Play!

The worries of yesterday have not solved today’s problem, and neither will tomorrow’s.

Enjoy yourself and find fulfilment in all that you do. Your life will thank you for it.

I rise.

Photo by Tyler Nix on Unsplash