Why “Play” Time is Essential for Your Business
Do you ever find yourself wrestling with that nagging feeling of guilt when you’re not constantly working on your business?
That familiar twinge that whispers you’re not being “productive” enough when you dare to step away from the hustle?
If so, you’re not alone.
Even those deeply invested in their work, like myself, a remote video producer and video marketing strategist, can feel the pull of this unproductive guilt.
I’ve been reflecting on this recently, especially when I dedicate time to exploring and testing new software and tools for my business.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that unless you’re directly engaging with clients or creating content, you’re somehow falling behind.
However, I’m learning to reframe this mindset and recognize this “play” time for what it truly is: an essential investment in future efficiency and innovation.
Just like mastering video was a creative outlet for me that I didn’t know existed, taking the time to learn new skills and experiment with new tools can spark unexpected creativity and lead to breakthroughs in your business.
Think of it this way:
- Innovation Requires Exploration: You can’t discover new and better ways of doing things if you’re always stuck in the daily grind. Allowing yourself time to explore new software or strategies is like providing your business with the space to evolve and improve.
- Preventing Burnout: Constantly working without breaks or time for exploration can lead to burnout. By stepping back and engaging in activities that feel more like “play,” you’re actually recharging your mental batteries, which ultimately benefits your productivity in the long run.
- Long-Term Vision: As someone who helps service-based entrepreneurs leverage video, I understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve. Investing time in understanding new trends and tools ensures that I can continue to provide valuable advice and services to my clients. This proactive investment in growth is crucial for the future of your work.
I can also relate this feeling of guilt to the fear of not being accepted or the concern about what others might think.
In a culture that often glorifies constant busyness, taking time for yourself or for exploration might feel counterintuitive or even lead to a fear of judgment.
However, it’s important to remember that true productivity isn’t just about the number of hours you put in, but the quality of your work and your overall well-being.
As entrepreneurs, we often start our businesses with a passion for helping others and showcasing our expertise.
Taking the time to learn and grow allows us to do this even more effectively.
So, the next time you feel that twinge of guilt for not constantly “grinding,” remember that investing in exploration, learning, and even a bit of “play” is a crucial part of building a sustainable and innovative business.
Prioritize “testing and trying” as part of your professional development. What new tools have you found particularly valuable?
I’d love to hear your experiences and recommendations in the comments!
