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I Found the Answer to the Stress of Modern Life – the Lost Art of ‘Whimsy’

I Found the Answer to the Stress of Modern Life – the Lost Art of ‘Whimsy’

Summary

The writer argues that playful, unstructured activities can offer a break from the pressures and routines of adult life. Psychologists say playfulness can coexist with responsibility, while creative activities may encourage curiosity and give the brain a pause from work-focused thinking.

Key Facts

  • The writer contrasts a childhood filled with spontaneous activities with an adult routine shaped by screen time and on-demand services.
  • The article describes current examples of whimsy, including crafts, pottery classes, analogue hobbies and decorating reusable cups.
  • Psychologist Connie McReynolds says whimsy can help people loosen expectations and make room for curiosity, imagination and spontaneity.
  • Clinical psychologist Matthew Leahy says adults can be playful while still meeting responsibilities.
  • Leahy says play can give the brain a break; he uses fiction unrelated to his work as an example.
  • The writer says adults may turn hobbies into activities to document or measure, such as logging films or tracking runs.
  • Catherine Thomas says workplaces often value creativity while also emphasizing efficiency and measurable results.
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