Unleashing the Power of Play to Combat Burnout with Gary Ware

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of Culture Conversations, Craig Forman sits down with Gary Ware, a dynamic consultant and workshop facilitator who uses purposeful play to help organizations combat burnout and build resilience. Gary shares his unique approach to fostering creativity and connection within teams by integrating play into the workplace. The discussion delves into the current challenges facing organizations in 2024, including burnout and the complexities of remote work. Gary and Craig explore how leaders can redefine play to drive high performance, and the importance of human responsibility in setting boundaries and protecting well-being in a demanding work environment.

Key Takeaways:

  • Burnout and Resilience in 2024: Despite the advancements in workplace flexibility, many employees are still feeling burned out. Gary emphasizes the need to address this by rethinking how we work and interact.
  • The Role of Play in Transformation: Gary explains how play can serve as a powerful tool for transformation in organizations, allowing teams to open up, shed egos, and tackle challenges more effectively.
  • Redefining Play: Drawing on insights from *Prime to Perform*, Craig and Gary discuss the importance of play, not just as a fun activity, but as a critical component of flow and creativity in the workplace.
  • Human Responsibility: The conversation highlights the role of leaders and employees in setting boundaries and protecting their well-being, emphasizing that organizations will naturally push for maximum efficiency unless humans intervene.
  • Practical Tips for Managers: Gary offers simple, actionable advice for managers looking to create psychologically safe spaces and integrate more play into their teams’ routines.

Relevant Links and References:

Gary Ware’s Website: https://www.breakthroughplay.com

About Gary Ware: Gary Ware is a consultant and workshop facilitator who specializes in using play as a medium for organizational transformation. With over a decade of experience, Gary has helped numerous teams break through barriers, enhance creativity, and build resilience through his innovative approach.

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