Day 556: Work Like Play = Like

About seven years ago, very over-excited, on my way to an interview with my first 'proper' corporate roleplay company I created a little song in my head about how my work feels like play. It was all brand new and wonderful and even though I hadn't done it yet, in my head, it was the best thing ever!

I've recently stopped working for that company, even though I love the content of what they do when they do their core work - it's delightful, that work, fun to do, effective, and totally feels like play, because the play bits are and the coaching bits are what I love to do and it makes a difference, which... well, it make the difference, doesn't it. It can all feel like play but if it doesn't move anyone or spark ideas or change in them, or inspire them, or make their life better, even for an ephemeral moment, than it was before they took part, then it's just frivol, isn't it. The second there's a bigger purpose for it, I'm hooked. 

Today and yesterday, I got to play (work) with someone I first worked with at that company, and with a total stranger too, and it was BRILLIANT. This person is a total star - funny, warm, intelligent, interesting, reeeaaallly good at what he does (and at what he doesn't do so much any more - I can see it - he's a fantastic actor) and a brilliant human. I had so much fun AND we spent a lot of our time noting the bits we liked about people and about what was going on, enjoying other people's skill (our trainer was excellent). 

Out of the blue, with no warning at the time (but with an idea that came to him the night before), he introduced a bit of the session that included messing with different languages - having a conversation and switching languages without warning. It was ACE, especially as it was totally unprepared. And I felt totally safe with both Russell, the trainer, and Matt, playing the 'straight man' and reacting seamlessly. That's when work is very cool. That's when work feels like play in an easy way.

Sometimes, it's tougher and more challenging, but still feels like play. Play doesn't rule out 'hard work', as in effort, concentration, focus, sweat. Play is ace when there's a load of that. Here's to even more of that, drawn in together through finding out and trying out stuff that also has that playful twist to it. Here's to work so good, you want to eat it. 

Om nom nom. And all that.

PS - picture search term: work like play. Honest.