Playing

The previous page discusses style and type tendencies in the form of commonly observed behavior. On a more personal level, some individuals plan for play times. Does such planning work? All of us may experience times when play opportunities arise and we react accordingly (sometimes even when play may not be appropriate). “I”s need to arrange to be with people for purposes other than work for full play opportunities to arise and “E”s may need to be alone or in a small group (less than four?) for them to experience their full play potential. For many, “joining” is required-think religious groups that form study groups, committees and action details, political groups to aid in furtherance of common ideals, service groups to improve the community or aid the poor, homeless, or needy, sports and sporting groups, etc. However, joining a gang such as the KKK of old, outlaw motorcycle gangs, street gangs, etc. involved in violent or illegal activities or that do not allow easy exit should be avoided.

Why do we hold back in switching from work to a full play mode? There are probably several answers that would include a nearly absolute distrust of those whom we have met with work styles completely opposite of our own. If we cannot work with “them” as our opposites, then how can we act “that” way in front of others? It is only by recognizing that style switches have to occur for us to play that some of us can begin to play.

Does play necessarily involve humor or amusement? The simple answer is “no”. Yet, humor and amusement are actually separate categories(or parts of a single other category) that have the same effect as helping one relieve tension. The presence of either may make play more enjoyable.

Choose this link to learn more about other unforced type switches.