Could a Playful Approach to Life Help in Times of Difficulty?
The Power of a Positive Outlook
In the face of life’s ups and downs, some maintain unshakeable optimism, convinced the future will always be bright. This positive outlook often leads them to adopt a lighter and more cheerful approach to everyday life.
A Study on the Links between Playfulness and Resilience
A US study claims that this kind of mindset could help people better cope with life’s difficulties and strengthen resilience. To better understand how a playful attitude influences our ability to adapt, Xiangyou Shen and Zoe Crawley of Oregon State University surveyed 503 American adults in February 2021, in the midst of the pandemic.
Playful Individuals: More Optimistic and Creative
The researchers observed that people who described themselves as very playful tended to be more optimistic about the future and more creative in their coping strategies. They were also more inclined than others to anticipate the development of a Covid-19 vaccine and to envision a return to normal life.
The “Colour Spotlight” Effect
“Playful individuals didn’t minimise Covid risks or overestimate the effectiveness of protective measures; they directed their ‘spotlight’ towards possibilities for positive change and growth, illuminating potential paths forward even in dark times,” Shen explained.
Playfulness as a Resource in Times of Chaos
Despite a similar perception of the dangers of the pandemic and feelings of isolation, these people found ways to adapt their daily lives, turn obstacles into opportunities, and maintain some control over their environment. In other words, the way they approached challenges and other situations allowed them to make the most of them.
Developing a Playful Side
Shen believes certain habits can help, such as surrounding ourselves with people who make us laugh, cultivating our curiosity, or adopting a more flexible attitude in the face of the unexpected. “You don’t have to play to be playful. It’s about bringing a spirit of fun, openness, and flexibility to everyday moments,” the expert said.
Conclusion
In times of crisis, cultivating a more playful attitude could well be an effective strategy for better coping with uncertainty and moving forward. While seeing the glass as half full may seem naive, this study opens up an interesting avenue of exploration.
FAQs
* What is the connection between playfulness and resilience?
The study found that people who described themselves as very playful tended to be more optimistic about the future and more creative in their coping strategies.
* Can we develop a more playful side?
Yes, by surrounding ourselves with people who make us laugh, cultivating our curiosity, or adopting a more flexible attitude in the face of the unexpected.
* Is a playful approach to life a guarantee for success?
No, other factors could explain the differences observed between naturally playful people and those who are less so, and the influence of playfulness can vary according to individuals and contexts.