I’m doing a reading of one of my stories for an upcoming children’s tea party.
Since the character I’m reading about is a dragon, I’ve decided to dress up as a princess for the afternoon. And you know what? I’m really excited about it. Imagine wearing a gown right out of Cinderella – I rented one from the local theater company, and I’m getting my tiara and magic wand tomorrow. Why am I this excited and happy getting ready to “perform” for some kids? I think there are three good reasons.
- This is something different from my usual schedule. In mixing it up and doing something out of the ordinary, I’m triggering a whole bunch of new sensations and feelings. Not only is the novelty taking me out of the same’ole comfort zone, it’s invigorating me and giving me high energy.
- I feel like a kid again. Dressing up in a costume and “being someone else” is the stuff of kids’ imaginations. There are no rules and boundaries here just a great sense of freedom and fun – the essential ingredients of playing. Any idea of working has disappeared.
- I like what I’m doing. Reading stories to kids may be an absolute nightmare scenario for you but I like it. And it is a great complement to my writing. So I end up having the best of both worlds.
Got an idea that’s different than what you typically might do?
Is there a sense of fun and playfulness about it? Know you’re bound to like doing it? Then chances are you’ve got a big dose of excitement and happiness coming your way.
Kita Szpak is a contributing blogger for JenningsWire.
