“Play is the highest form of research.”

Albert Einstein

When was the last time you got bored?

When I am headed somewhere and know I will have some downtime I generally pack a few books, a journal, and some pens. To hold off any potential for boredom I keep myself busy and there is always my phone for drawing, playing games, or a movie. This last weekend I decided to ditch the distractions and find out what it was like to have nothing “to do” while waiting for my son as he practiced. After walking circles around the parking lot, the tailgate looked like a perfect place to relax in the sun. Nothing to do but just soak in the warmth and allow myself to doze. As I did the sweetest sounds rolled over me.

The voices of children entertaining themselves.

It brought back memories of my childhood and waiting for mom or dad to finish talking so we could go home. The car became a land of make-believe (and an occasional prison). The boredom didn’t just show up in the car. We spent hours in the fabric store waiting for Mom. A kid can only look at so many pattern books until their attention turns to rows of fabric and finding a place to hide. It was in those moments of “boredom” that creativity was born.

Do you let yourself have time to be creative?

Playtime falls away as we get older. More “adult” matters to tend to. But studies show that play actually fuels problem-solving. If play is a great way for children to learn then why do we phase it out as we get older? I have personally experienced my mind easily finding a solution when I have fun with the problem.

Turn off to tune in.

Are you willing to forego the electronic stimulation of your phone, computer, or tv to learn something new about yourself? It was in journaling in the morning that I found out I love to write and doodles turned into art.

Challenge yourself to go electronics-free.

Leave your phone at home when you

• Run errands
• Go to your kid’s practice
• Drive your kids to school
• Go for a walk
• Walk your dog

** Worried about not having a phone in case something happens? Don’t be. Everyone else will have one.

Have a problem you are trying to solve?

• Paint
• Draw
• Play with legos
• Go for a walk

Shadow puppets, forts, and make-believe may be games of youth but play is meant for all ages. Who knows, you might remember where you left something you have been searching for, meet someone new, or remember something that sparks joy.

Have fun with this experiment.

Until we meet again. Keep dreaming.

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