Before we dig into the how's of unleashing your inner child, the real question is why would we want to do something like that?
Well, first and foremost, playfulness unleashes creativity. It makes us feel light, joyful, peaceful, inspired, excited and loving. It makes us a better teammate and a better person to be around. It can improve our relationships! Playfulness can improve your quality of life in many ways!
So, what are some ways to become more playful? Try these simple tips to get started:
Smile: The act of smiling literally alters your brain chemistry and fights stress. Just by smiling you can improve your overall well-being. I dare you to smile at a random stranger on the street. Yes, you are probably wearing a mask right now, but this is a perfect time to try something you're not used to. You don't have to feel weird about it because they can't even see your beautiful smile! A WIN-WIN. Next step is to smile at a stranger post pandemic!
Adopt an Attitude of Curiosity: Become a detective and ask all the questions. Get curious. There are never stupid questions! To truly embrace an attitude of curiosity means you begin to question things in your life and the world around you with no attachment to the answer.
Look and Think with a Beginners Mindset: This goes hand-in-hand with becoming curious. You need to think like a beginner, even if you are an expert! Pretend you are new to your field again and ask all the questions you already know. I can guarantee there are hidden gems just waiting to be explored.
Share a Silly Story: This one is easy! We all have silly stories. Whether they are big or small. Something as simple as calling a stranger mom by accident. Whatever it is. I challenge you to get inside yourself and become vulnerable. Laugh at yourself and the world will laugh back (in a good way).
Make Fun of Yourself: This can be a tough one for people. Laughing at ourselves requires a lot of vulnerability. This takes time and practice, but once you come to terms with your quirks, the happier you will be. Your friends and family will thank you for it! What's one thing you can make fun of yourself for?
Being playful is a skill. It takes practice if you're not used to it. Try to loosen up and embrace the uncomfortable feelings of being free and uninhibited without drugs or alcohol. Letting go is a powerful tool and getting curious about life is exciting. I encourage you to take a look at your life and see where you can let the inner child within run free. You might surprise yourself!