The power of play in the workplace

By DR. BRIAN WILLIAMSON, Ed. D.

Early in my career, I had the unique opportunity to work at Praxair, Inc., which occupied a small portion of the two million square foot former Union Carbide Corporate Center, now known as The Summit at Danbury, in Danbury, Connecticut. At the time, the building housed only a few tenants; leaving vast, underutilized spaces, including an old library.

One afternoon, during a casual conversation with the facilities team, a colleague discovered a ping pong table sitting in storage. The table was moved into the former library, transforming the once-abandoned space into a vibrant hub for good natured ping pong competitions, social collaboration, and creativity.

What began as a simple lunchtime activity soon evolved into something far more meaningful; an opportunity to build connections and allow our minds the freedom to relax and reset. This was the late ‘90s and early aughts, before we heard about companies like Google and Airbnb putting game rooms in their corporate headquarters that rival a Dave & Buster’s.

Our company’s own makeshift “playroom” underscores the importance of “play” in the workplace, not just as a way to pass the time, but as a critical component of building relationships, teamwork, and well-being. Play, particularly during the workday, provides employees with the mental respite needed to enhance creativity and collaboration.

The Importance of Play in the Workplace

Workplaces today are fast-paced and demanding, requiring employees to juggle multiple tasks across many technology platforms. Yet, there’s a growing recognition that taking breaks, especially ones that allow for creative or physical play, can help employees recharge, both mentally and emotionally. This is not just about taking a moment to relax. It’s about creating a space where new ideas can emerge, free from the constraints of deadlines and performance metrics.

Play and Innovation

The most innovative ideas often arise when and where we least expect them. Historically, some of the world’s most groundbreaking ideas have been developed off the beaten path, during times of play or casual interaction, rather than in the confines of a meeting room or formal brainstorming session. Play allows the brain to access different modes of thinking, fostering a more open and flexible mindset. When we engage in activities that are not directly related to work, our brains can approach problems from new angles, which often leads to clever solutions.

Studies on neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections, show that engaging in activities like play can enhance our ability to think creatively. Play stimulates regions of the brain that are linked to problem-solving, memory, and emotional regulation; all of which are critical to developing innovative ideas.

Additionally, play often facilitates informal communication and strengthens relationship bonds between colleagues. These social connections are essential for collaborative teamwork, which are key drivers of innovation. When employees feel connected and supported, they are more likely to share ideas and take risks, leading to better overall outcomes for the organization.

Earthing: A Grounding Concept

The concept of “earthing” or grounding, is another fascinating area that connects to the benefits of play time. It involves the practice of walking barefoot outdoors on the earth’s natural surface (if you are fortunate to have this kind of access during the work day), or connecting to a grounding matt while indoors, which transfers the Earth’s natural electrons into the body through the bottom of the feet.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), earthing offers benefits such as reduced stress and anxiety, improved focus and concentration, enhanced mood, increased energy levels, and improved mental clarity. While earthing may initially seem unconventional, it is practiced by many executives in today’s leading companies who incorporate these practices into their daily routines to reduce stress and boost mental clarity.

Remote Work: Incorporating Play and Mental Shifting

For those who work remotely, the challenge of creating opportunities for play and mental resets may seem even greater. Without a physical office space to walk into, how can remote workers achieve the same benefits of play that their in-office counterparts enjoy together? The answer lies in intentionally shifting our mental state and finding creative ways to engage in activities that refresh the body and mind.

Incorporating physical movement into the workday is a powerful way to boost both mental and physical well-being. Whether it’s stepping onto a home treadmill, taking a quick ride on a Peloton bike, using a TRX system for strength training, or working out frustrations on a home boxing bag; even short bursts of exercise and play can release tension, sharpen focus, and reset the brain. These activities don’t require long sessions. Five to ten minutes of intentional and fun movement can make a meaningful difference.

Equally important is dedicating time for physical play are mental breaks, or creative activities unrelated to work. This might involve reading a book, sketching, journaling, engaging in a hobby, or simply meditating. These moments of disconnection provide the brain with rest, often sparking new ideas and leading to greater productivity.

Conclusion

The power of play in the workplace cannot be overstated. From my early experiences at Praxair to the innovative spaces created in the Empire State Building, it’s clear that allowing time for play is essential for inspired productivity, collaboration, and overall well-being. The best ideas often emerge when we step away from our desks and engage in activities that give our minds the space to rest and reset. Play, neuroplasticity, and grounding all play a significant role in innovative thinking.

For remote workers, finding ways to incorporate play and mental resets into the workday is just as important as it is for those in traditional office environments. By intentionally shifting our mental state through physical activity, creative outlets, or informal virtual interactions, we can tap into our innovative potential, creating a workplace culture where new ideas flourish and connections thrive.

 

Dr. Brian Williamson is a management consultant and visiting lecturer in Leadership and Management Studies at the University of Oxford. He is a global authority in business transformation, employee experience, and purpose-driven project management as vice president of PMO Advisory.