Whaddaya mean, Be Playful?

The other day a friend looked puzzled when I said I want this blog to be playful. It seems we’ve gotten so results-oriented, that we’re not having much fun.   We’re also INSTANT results- oriented.  We tend to get squirrelly pretty quick if things don’t happen in a flash. That’s a lot of unnecessary pressure.

On the other hand, making jewelry invites me to be in the present, to slow down and–horrors of horrors–even change things around if they don’t suit me. It is SO satisfying to have the freedom to screw up, back up, re-look and take another crack at it. I encourage you to try it yourself. It doesn’t have to have anything to do with gems or jewelry.  Just get take a break and goof off. Try a new skill, or a forgotten pastime that used to bring you enjoyment.

Your Spirit is never too old for summer camp

The attached photo is my dining room table, where I first started.  Making jewelry was so enjoyable, that I created a work space in my office, which I’m starting to outgrown again.

Being playful is a like going back to summer camp and trying to make something with your own hands, like weave a four strand lanyard. My first efforts were pretty pathetic and very exciting at the same time.  But it didn’t matter because I had a lot of fun trying something without any pressure to be good or make a passing grade.   Fast forward to today and the same holds true: Play is a guarantee for discovering your creativity.

Stick around for future posts as we explore being playful. Your comments and personal stories (see below) are much appreciated. Meanwhile, get out of your routine and go play. Have fun.