Play is a powerful driver. But maybe not in the way you think.

Knowing your own play style is a great asset, but knowing someone else’s play style can be just as valuable, especially when it comes to your kids.

This past weekend, I was in the yard with my daughter and asked if she wanted to help me water the garden and plants.

She softly and rather uneventfully said, “Um, no thanks…”

I know her dominant play style is the Dreamer, someone who loves immersing herself in stories, role-playing and make-believe, so I asked the question again, but a little differently:

“Do you want to pretend we’re farmers taking care of our crops and watering them?”

A huge smile appeared on her face, followed by an enthusiastic head nod.

“YESSSS!”

The task was exactly the same. What changed was the way we approached it.

We made it playful, but playful in a way that connected with her. Pretend play and becoming someone or something else is fun for her.

This is what we mean when we talk about play. It isn’t always about the activity itself; it’s about bringing a playful approach to how we do it.

As leaders, knowing our team members’ play styles and understanding what makes each person light up can help us support the different ways they approach their work. We can create opportunities that make work feel a little less like, well…work.

Play is a powerful driver. When someone feels energized by what they’re doing, that can be play, even at work.

Want to discover your play style? Take the quiz: https://lnkd.in/gDaexKtB

Why do some people love their job, some just like it, and others, well, can't wait to get out?

It comes down to play. Not "playing around" but a playful approach to work.

When you truly enjoy something, it's because you're in a play mindset, doing what's naturally playful for you. For some, that feeling is obvious at the start of a job. That's probably why they chose it. But over time, even doing the same work, that play mindset can fade. It becomes routine. Pressure builds. Maybe your manager isn't communicating clearly, and you're never quite sure what's expected of you.

To stay in a playful state, you need a few things:

 → An environment that lets you thrive (not just the physical but the people around you)

 → Self-awareness of yourself and others

 → Space to do what you were born to do (follow your play nature)

What is it you love about your job? The people, the organizing, the problem solving? Your play style can help you understand why you love your job, and just as important, why you might not.

At Pop CoLab, we've built an environment that works well for many people (though not everyone, and that's okay). We can also help you discover your play style through our quiz. But at the end of the day, you have to find and own it.

What's your play style? Find it here: https://lnkd.in/gDaexKtB

I Started Pop CoLab Before I Fully Understood Why

I have always been driven by exploration. Fitting, since my dominant play style is Explorer. Exploration has led me to good decisions. It has also taken me down challenging paths. Both have shaped who I am today.

The Path Less Traveled

For years, I wondered why I often chose a different path than those around me. Some opted for work that offered more stability, structure, and certainty. I, on the other hand, frequently chose the path filled with questions and uncertainties.

When I started Pop CoLab, I didn’t fully know what I was building. I sensed that the idea felt different. I believed people would find value in the work. Most importantly, I felt energized by it.

At first, I questioned whether I liked Pop CoLab simply because the idea was new. Now, I understand that the attraction runs much deeper.

Rediscovering Joy Through Play

Pop CoLab has become a sanctuary for people to reconnect with parts of themselves often left behind in the workplace. Here, we embrace:

• Joy

• Curiosity

• Creativity

• Trust

• Play

  
  

For me, play manifests in various forms. It looks like building things, exploring new ideas, observing, and trying out new experiences. I dive into the work myself and see what unfolds.

Every day at Pop CoLab gives me the freedom to explore. The best part? Watching others do the same.

Embracing Different Play Styles

People engage in different ways. Some jump right in, while others prefer to observe first. Some want to create, some want to move, and some want to compete or converse. All of these responses matter. Play does not look the same for everyone.

Pop CoLab exists to create space for these differences. It’s a place where people can explore freely. A place where teams can learn more about each other. A space where various play styles feel welcomed and appreciated.

The Evolution of Purpose

Pop CoLab started as an idea I didn’t fully grasp at the time. Now, I see its purpose more clearly. But I guess that’s how many remarkable things come to life—through exploration and discovery.

The Power of Purposeful Play

Engaging in purposeful play fosters self-awareness and connection. For an Explorer like me, there is no better path to be on. It’s about creating experiences that resonate deeply and inspire growth.

If your team needs help building inclusive experiences rooted in psychological safety, I would love to work with you. Together, we can unlock the potential of play and connection.

Conclusion: Join Us on This Journey

At Pop CoLab, we believe in the power of play to transform teams and individuals alike. If you’re ready to embark on a journey of exploration, creativity, and connection, let’s connect. Together, we can create engaging, play-based experiences that help your team thrive.

In the heart of Winnipeg, Pop CoLab is your go-to destination for innovative team-building and creative experiences. Let’s rediscover the joy of play together!