Play

There are generally two modes of thinking, open and closed. Effective creativity depends on knowing when to switch between the two modes.

The conditions for an open, creative mode of thinking include dedicated time and space, a tolerance for the discomfort of open-endedness, confidence, and humor.

Creativity is like humor in that both use the juxtaposition of two different ideas to create something new.

Roleplay make the rules of thinking explicit and gives people permission to think in ways they may not have otherwise. The six thinking hats are an example of defined roles for thinking.

We can recognize play in a wide variety of cultural activities. For designers, this can suggest using a playful mindset to understand both the context and process of design.

Play is entered freely, set apart from “ordinary” life, and is ordered by rules. These qualities provide a starting framework for understanding play and its value to our experiences.