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About this quote

What does it mean?
We are most authentic when we take play seriously, like a child who is fully engaged.
In plain terms
Being serious in play reveals our true self.
What can you take from it?
Embrace focused, purposeful play to discover authenticity.

Where it applies

  • creative work
  • childhood development

Putting it to work

  • schedule focused playtime
  • allow playful seriousness

Questions to consider

  • How does play reveal inner truth?
  • When does seriousness hinder creativity?

Another view

Not everyone finds authenticity through play; other paths exist.

More from Heraclitus

  1. War is the father and king of all: some he has made gods, and some men; some slaves and some free.

    Permalink to quote #51
  2. Where there is no strife there is decay: The mixture which is not shaken decomposes.

    Permalink to quote #53
  3. Uncomprehending when they have heard, they are like the deaf. The saying describes them: though present they are absent.

    Permalink to quote #50

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