As we play as children, we are always learning. Our play often emulates family and work life where we play and act out roles that we are trying on.
Dr. Spock, the famous pediatrician, wrote, “A child loves her play not because it’s easy, but because it’s hard.” Acting “as if” is a way of understanding situations by behaving and even thinking as though they are true.
In this context, play has clear benefit. The slogan “fake it until you make it” means to play or pretend that you are where you want to be as a primary means of ultimately getting there. “Let’s pretend” or “let’s play like” are common childhood expressions that each of us can apply to contemporary situations.
Where in your life would you benefit from “playing like” you are where you want to be? What kind of identity would support your growth? Can you “play like” or “pretend” that you are the person who has reached some key goals? Can you “play like” and still maintain your authenticity and integrity?
What shifts would that kind of play likely produce for you? What impact would that kind of play have on others? How can you support others “living into” their dreams in similar ways?