Finding the fun: Startups and the importance of play

“Play is the answer to how anything new comes about” — Piaget

One of my previous jobs ‘up over’ at Salesforce Foundation was VP of All things Fun, Meaningful & Rewarding. Yes, it fitted on a business card! There was something in the title that allowed me to be playful, which also inspired the employees to get involved in the programs that my team and I were leading. More importantly, I was the one who gained incredible value in watching the employees have fun and learn from engaging in the community.

Now, that I’m ‘down under’ I have been offered the fortunate opportunity to create a similar culture with incredible founders and the knowledgeable team at muru-D.

We grow up, we often forget how to play. In our hectic modern lives, many of us focus so heavily on work and family commitments that we never seem to have time for pure fun. Somewhere between childhood and adulthood, we’ve stopped playing and get too serious.

When this happens, it’s said we fall into a fixed mindset. These are people who believe that intelligence cannot be changed and that people are either born smart or not. Individuals who believe their intelligence is malleable, that it can change with hard work, perseverance, challenge and play are of the growth mindset. This description defines the character of an entrepreneur.

Growth mindset requires play. Play brings joy. It’s vital for problem solving, creativity and relationships. And, helps for a successful journey as an entrepreneur in the muru-D program. We take our play seriously here. Or perhaps we should say we take our seriousness playfully.

What kind of play do you do to challenge yourself, grow, and learn?

Come play with us if you want to learn more. muru-D hosts regular events in Sydney, Melbourne and Singapore — visit muru-d.com for more info.

(originally published on Telstra Exchange)