Playfulness in Action
Creating If-Then Plans
SLP work often requires us to respond in the moment—to unexpected challenges, uncertainty, stress, and competing demands. Creating if-then plans helps us prepare for these moments intentionally.
By pairing common work situations with playful, supportive responses, we can create more opportunities for curiosity, flexibility, engagement, and recovery.
Instructions
Reflect on your daily routine and identify moments that could be opportunities for more playfulness and joy. Choose specific cues or situations that are regular parts of your day.
Decide on a playful action or activity that can be easily performed in response to each cue.
Examples
- If I finish a challenging conversation, then I will celebrate with a one-song dance break.
- If I notice myself carrying tension after a difficult interaction, then I will step outside for five minutes to feel the sunshine or notice something around me.
- If something on my schedule gets canceled, then I will spend five minutes doodling or doing a quick creative activity.
- If I feel myself becoming overwhelmed, then I will practice five rounds of box breathing.
- If I'm making my morning tea or coffee before work, then I'll try something playful, like a new flavor or latte art.
- If my to-do list starts to feel overwhelming, then I'll take a short breathing break and think about a joyful memory.
- If I've been sitting in one place for more than an hour, then I'll spend five minutes stretching, moving around, or watching a funny animal video.
- If I complete something that took extra effort, then I'll celebrate with a one-song dance break.
- If I have a few unexpected minutes between activities, then I'll do a quick puzzle, doodle, or brain teaser.
- If I notice myself getting stuck on a problem, then I'll take a breath and doodle for one minute before coming back to it.
- If I don't know what to say next in a conversation, then I'll take a sip of water and get curious instead of rushing to fill the silence.
Create Your If-Then Statements
Create at least three If-Then plans using routine cues or situations from your own workday.
Your completed statements will appear here automatically.
Complete an If-Then statement above to see it here.
Reflect on Feasibility
How realistic is it for you to perform these actions in response to the cues? Make any adjustments needed to ensure your plans are achievable and fun.
Plan for Variability
Consider different playful actions for the same cue to keep your routine interesting and enjoyable.
Commitment
Commit to trying your If-Then play statements for a set period of time and notice any changes in your mood, stress levels, and overall enjoyment of daily activities.
Reflection on Incorporating Play into Your Routine
After you've tried your If-Then statements, return here to reflect on how they affected your routine, mood, and overall well-being.