All Work & No Play Makes Johnny a Dull Boy

re·cess (noun)

: a short period of time during the school day when children can play

:a usually brief period of time during which regular activity in a court of law or in a government stops

:A temporary cessation of the customary activities of an engagement, occupation, or pursuit.

Why is recess only for children and those who are in the judicial system? How is that fair? What about that secretary at the doctor's office? Why can't they have a recess? Why not that plumber down the street who just was knee deep in his work or the government workers within the cube farm constantly on their phones and computers and lets not forget the chemist who is stuck in a quarantined room testing?

By now you get my gist, we need recess. I'm not talking about going on a "break" where you are required to come back to work within 15 minutes or a lunch break where you have a half hour, if your lucky. I'm speaking of the good old fashioned recess where everyone (including the CEO, president..etc) plays a low-intense activity together. What does it matter what the game is? 

I know your thinking about if someone gets hurt... liability issues and who pays. Oh, give me a break... Why is it always about money and who has to pay. Accidents happen, yes. But, there are ways that it can be worked out and shame on you for automatically thinking negative! What about all the positives? Growth of morale, less stress, better health, happier, mental break and lets not forget about pure joy.

I know your thinking what if no one wants to participate. Again, with another negative thought, shame on you! I bet you there will be people who will want to participate. A pick up game of four-square or volleyball, maybe even a little badminton? Count me in! 

Stop with the structure and routines. Get off of Facebook, turn the phone off and go play for an hour. The Spanish had it figured out with their idea of siesta. Granted they created it because of the intense heat, but the concept is the same. A recess to regroup. Some would regard recess as a waste of company money, time and personnel. I don't believe that. We are humans, not robots and we need to regroup after recess.

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