Friday espresso: Embracing Play in Leadership: A New Approach

Oct 25, 2024 1:01 am

Rise and Shine!

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Embracing Play in Leadership: A New Approach

Recently, a question from my social media marketing partner sparked a deep reflection: “Why are you taking a more relaxed approach to branding yourself as a speaker, unlike another client who tirelessly paves their path?” This question led me to a realization about what I truly want in this phase of life, I have been working hard for my whole career and now…I want to play!

WHY Play Matters in Leadership

As leaders, we’re often taught that hard work and responsibility are the pillars of success. While they’re certainly important, we rarely consider the role that play can have in our professional lives. Play isn’t frivolous—it’s a mindset that encourages curiosity, innovation, and a deeper connection to our work. For too long, I thought embracing play would mean sacrificing quality, but I’ve come to realize it actually enhances creativity and opens up new possibilities.

In today’s changing workforce, leaders who incorporate play are better equipped to adapt to the shifting needs and motivations of their teams.

WHAT Play Means to Me

Play is about being curious and engaging with myself, the people around me, and the environment I am in. It’s about seeking something new in myself, in every person, situation, or task—even in activities I’ve done a hundred times before. This mindset allows me to find joy, humor, and creativity in my work.

Rather than aiming for perfection, I focus on staying fully present and letting go of rigid expectations about what I am “supposed” to be.

For me, play is not about abandoning responsibility or profession

HOW to Integrate Play into Leadership

Here are a few ways to start embracing play in your leadership role:

Redefining Play as a Leader:

Does play mean not being serious? Does "not-serious" lead to a shortfall in performance? Does play mean we set aside work and results?

For me, play at work means letting go of the weight of “should be,” continuously exploring new ways of doing things, and laughing at my mistakes as I rediscover different approaches. It’s about creating space for curiosity, flexibility, and growth—without compromising the quality or seriousness of the work itself.

Create Space for Play:

Find moments in your daily routine where you can let go of strict expectations and enjoy the process. Whether it’s brainstorming with your team or taking on a new challenge, approach it with a playful attitude.

Lead (Or, Play) by Example:

Encourage your team to see the value of play by modelling it yourself. Show them that it’s possible to be both passionate and playful while still delivering results.

Final Thoughts

As I enter this new chapter of life, I’m ready to balance passion and professionalism with playfulness, and I encourage others to do the same. Play fosters creativity, deepens engagement, and allows us to truly enjoy our roles as leaders!

Speaking about PLAY, I want to play together with all of you guys too!

On 21st November 2024, I’m officially launching my book “Lead Change Heart Way” at Temu House! And it’s open to the public!

Join me in celebrating this milestone together, and you’ll also have the chance to "ber-temu" and make some new connections along the way!

Kindly RSVP by 7th November 2024 using the link in the below

https://forms.gle/ohTzXdfZULm9HmgB6