ANECDOTE
Years ago, I came down with a respiratory illness that wouldn’t get better. I “soldiered through” for weeks until I was so sick I could hardly get out of bed.
A friend finally took me to Urgent Care and the doc diagnosed me with walking pneumonia. She prescribed bed rest and antibiotics and then said, “I don’t understand why people work themselves to death.”
It got me thinking… Why do 46% of Americans NOT take all their paid time off? (Fact!)
Why do so many of us think fun is something you do AFTER your work is done?
And what does that mean for many of us whose work is never done?
We all know better than this… Especially me!
I majored in Recreation Administration in college! I grew up being active and fully believe it’s at the center of a happy, healthy life.
Yet over the years, I’ve spent more time sitting and spectating than stepping outside and participating.
As parents, it’s easy for days to become filled with chauffeuring kids around while we sit in the car, on the bleachers, or in the waiting room.
At work, it’s easy to get caught up with projects, commitments, and obligations.
But do you know one of my most important lessons learned in life?
Fun is not frivolous. Play and productivity are not mutually exclusive. It isn’t selfish; it’s a smart investment in a healthier, happier life.
So, here’s to making PLAY an active part of your year so you can live a life where the light is on in your eyes… today, not someday.
ACTION
What did you love doing as a child – that you no longer do as an adult? Take a moment to remember what doing that felt like. Really let yourself sink into that feeling of fun, freedom, and flow.
Now, get out your calendar and schedule yourself a “play date.” (Seriously – do it!)
Give yourself permission to immerse your mind in that painting. Sign up for that tennis class. Turn up the music and have a dance party with your kids after dinner… Trust me, you’ll be glad you did!
Here’s to being better.
Until next time,
Sam Horn