Why we should play more games
- Missy Mahjong
- 5 hours ago
- 3 min read
Why should we play more games? Games sharpen our life skills and teach the younger generations basic etiquette like appropriate conversation topics, courtesy, respect, collaboration and patience.
It doesn’t matter if we are playing checkers or bridge or baseball or charades… we need to use the power of play to strengthen our lives.
Games are nothing new. I am not suggesting anything groundbreaking. I am simply reminding everyone that we have something valuable in our life toolbox that needs to be used more often.
Deep Connection
When scrolling the phone and throwing “likes” to “friends” on social media, we are not really connecting. This is a form of entertainment, NOT friendship. When at the game table, players are sharing and listening to each other’s thoughts and strategies. Just by sitting down and agreeing to put the phone down, players are connecting.
Basic table etiquette
We are missing basic table etiquette like filling someone’s water glass or passing the salt. Do kids even know the basics of table formalities like introductions, handshakes or eye contact? Sometimes everyone is so lost in their phones or have an AirPod in that I rarely hear “God bless you!” when someone sneezes.
At the game table, we still have these basic etiquette skills. In mahjong, there is order during the Charleston and patience. The designated banker in Monopoly is not only considered an honest person; he or she also manages the distribution of funds. Eye contact is important in simple card games like Go Fish or Old Maid.
Respect the game host
Any game disputes should be managed by the game host or by the players collectively. There are sometimes discussions, but there is the respect that sometimes the call doesn’t seem fair. Life isn’t always fair… and neither are games. Game players understand that sometimes the bad call is in our favor, but other times it’s not. Every play, every call, every win and every loss is part of the game experience. Even deciding who should go first or the teams come with understanding and talking through any problems.
Player respect
Games teach us to use basic conversational skills. We need to be patient. We try to speak about appropriate table topics. We hold eye contact. We know it is rude to interrupt.
In a world where “me” and instant gratification is normal, we need to work to be collaborative and respectful of all the players at the table.
We can’t choose the cards we are dealt… but we can choose the way we play the hand.
How to use games to improve life skills
Play a new game
Try something new and learn the rules. We all become more confident when we learn to do something new, especially when it is hard. Adam Grant wrote an excellent book about this called Hidden Potential.
Meet new players
As you know, I believe that my network is my net worth. It is so important that we step out of our comfort zone and meet new people… in real life. We don’t need social media friends or Instagram followers, we need in person connection. Asking questions and finding common interests, making eye contact, using an appropriate handshake and a warm smile can help us all build our network.
We need to start connecting with people that are different from us, politically, ethnically, and experientially to be more understanding. I believe in having lifelong connections, but I am always open adding a new friend and perspective to my life.
Take the temperature down
The competition in life is just too much right now. You are not joining the PGA, there is professional mahjong league and your son is probably not going to the NFL. Just take a breath and play the game for the sake of fun.
There is a reason every good sports movie has a common theme: rooting for the underdog. It is fun to want the unexpected player to win! What happens if you are the best pickleball player or consistent mahjong champion? Use your skills to pass the game on and teach others what you know. Share your gifts and I promise you will be happier in life.
