Imagine a room buzzing with laughter, adults huddled over a strategy game, stacking vibrant towers of bricks, or moving together through synchronized Tai Chi. This was the energy of the recent #play14 Singapore, an unconference dedicated to celebrating the transformative power of play in adult learning and professional growth.
For many of us, play feels like something we leave behind in childhood. But #play14 challenges that belief, inviting us to rediscover its joy and to ask: Why let go of something so enriching?
What stood out most at #play14 SG was how effortlessly play broke down barriers and created real connections. In a space filled with curiosity and openness, participants felt free to explore and engage. Activities like navigating a zombie apocalypse to explore change management or improvising through games pushed us to collaborate and think differently, revealing play as an unexpectedly powerful driver of innovation and trust. (We got to showcase Fiero! as part of the event too!)
At its core, playful learning goes beyond just having fun. Drawing from LEGO’s philosophy, it’s active, meaningful, and deeply engaging. It thrives on experimentation, iteration, and social interaction—the ingredients that make learning stick. At #play14, games challenged us to solve problems, build empathy, and work as a team. What might have seemed lighthearted was anything but trivial. Play made complex ideas approachable and brought people together in ways that few other methods could.
Think about it: How often does a shared laugh or group win create such meaningful connections?
The world could use more spaces like #play14, where adults can reclaim the value of play as a way to connect, create, and grow. Unlike traditional conferences, #play14 had no set agenda; participants shaped the event by proposing and leading sessions on the spot. This open structure encouraged diverse voices and unique ideas, making the experience dynamic and personal.
As adults we often prioritize productivity over play, but what if productivity was play? Play doesn’t just recharge us—it fuels creativity, strengthens emotional resilience, and nurtures relationships. It’s essential for becoming effective leaders, better collaborators, and, perhaps most importantly, thoughtful human beings—my experience at #play14 SG was a vivid reminder of this fact. You can watch the highlights for #play14 here!
So, here’s your challenge: Gather some friends, pick up a game, and play. Not for an outcome, but simply for the joy of it. Because play isn’t just for kids—it’s for anyone ready to engage with life more fully and authentically.
