Several years ago, I began an effort to quit using nicotine. Dip tobacco became my escape from daily stressors. Nicotine releases a direct shot of dopamine, the “feel good” neurotransmitter in the brain. When I quit, there was a significant void that needed replacing. At the time, I knew little about how the brain functions. Years later, I discovered Dr. Andrew Huberman, a neuroscientist from Standford University, who explained this through his podcast. I realized that implementing “play” was the key to success.
Our bodies release dopamine when we play, allowing us to experience joy and happiness. Huberman has noted that non-competitive play is the best way to experience this. It takes away the stressor of competing to win. Competition is good, but if you want to experience joy and happiness in the moment, play for the fun. Become creative in your adventures and tap the imaginative spirit.
I see joy firsthand when I teach Physical Education. I observe my students smiling and socializing more when play is fun and creative. Many students retract and lose this experience when I add a competitive component. It becomes something different altogether for them. Tension and stress enter the room with the overwhelming desire to win. A friendly game of Pickleball, where students learn and discover their capabilities, becomes tiresome for many when we add a true competitive element.
Competition is essential for personal and team development, but if the objective is to have fun, limit the competitive piece and allow yourself to relax. Be conscious of how casual games affect your emotional state compared to competitive games. Practice transitioning back and forth between the two, where you find balance. This will produce less burnout, and happiness will flourish.
Coaches and teachers should understand the importance of balancing casual play and competition. This promotes an environment of creativity and exploration. With play, the opportunity to discover new strategies and techniques will be unlimited. Playful moments also allow leadership to surface. People are more willing to communicate in relaxed environments. This offers an excellent opportunity for coaches and teachers to identify the inspirational leaders in the room.
If you’ve enjoyed learning about play and how it is incorporated in leadership, take a peek at the YL Archive for additional leadership tools.
