Play Styles *
Play Styles *
Play creates more joy, relaxation and fulfillment in our lives, yet most of us think we are “bad” at it.
What if we told you that the key to unlocking the lost art of play is discovering what play style actually resonates with us? Just as personality frameworks like the Enneagram or Myers-Briggs help us better understand ourselves and others in work and relationships, play styles give us a way to identify and embrace the activities that bring us joy.
According to The National Institute for Play, there are eight personalities that describe the ways we play. While we each have a primary style, we often like to play in multiple ways, depending on our mood and environment.
Be sure to take the PLAY PERSONALITY quiz to find out which style most resonates with you and then take a peek at some of our play date ideas below to inspire you. Share your play style with friends and get to know theirs by rotating through these activities.
Having at least ONE play date per week — whether solo or with others — can improve your mood, reduce stress, increase happiness and enhance your overall wellbeing.
Collector
You find joy in collecting items or experiences, and you love the thrill of finding something unique.
Play Dates:
Collecting experiences, like visiting every national park.
Searching for antiques, collectibles or memorabilia.
Cataloging books, movies or art pieces.
Director
You love planning, organizing, and leading others in activities, events and projects.
Play Dates:
Organizing game nights, talent shows or scavenger hunts.
Coordinating group trips or outdoor adventures.
Starting a book club, trivia group or community league.
Kinesthete
You feel most alive when you’re moving your body, whether it’s sports, dance, or physical challenges.
Play Dates:
Practicing yoga, pilates or tai chi.
Skateboarding, biking or rollerblading.
Swimming, surfing or paddleboarding.
Competitor
You thrive on competition, structured games, and pushing yourself to win.
Play Dates:
Participating in team sports like soccer, basketball or volleyball.
Playing competitive board games or card games.
Competing in trivia nights, quiz games or video game tournaments.
Explorer
Whether it’s discovering new places, ideas or experiences, exploration and learning is your vibe.
Play Dates:
Visiting museums, historical sites or cultural landmarks.
Learning a new language or skill.
Trying new cuisines or attending food festivals.
Storyteller
Imagination is your playground, especially stories — whether you’re creating or absorbing them.
Play Dates:
Writing fiction, poetry or scripts.
Watching films, plays or TV shows with engaging plots.
Creating photo or video stories.
Creator
You like to make things and solve problems, whether it’s crafting, designing, or building.
Play Dates:
Crafting art projects like painting, pottery or knitting.
Assembling puzzles or solving escape rooms.
Inventing new recipes or experimenting in the kitchen.
Joker
You strive to make people laugh and bring humor into every situation.
Play Dates:
Playing charades, Pictionary or improv games.
Watching comedic movies, shows or skits.
Writing jokes, puns or making skits with friends.
