What happens in your brain when you play?

Research into the psychology of creativity reveals some fascinating insights into how playfulness impacts our brains.

1. Switching Between Thinking Modes: Creativity relies on the ability to move between two different types of thinking:

• Focused Attention, which we use when we are consciously trying to solve a problem, and
• Mind-Wandering, where our brain allows itself to drift and make connections in a less structured way.

The combination of these two modes is what sparks creativity. Playfulness naturally encourages us to transition between focused thinking and mind-wandering, providing an environment where we can freely move between being concentrated and being open to new ideas.

2. Cognitive Flexibility: Another key factor is cognitive flexibility—our brain's ability to easily switch between different ideas or perspectives. When we engage in playful activities, we are essentially training our cognitive flexibility. This ability to adapt and switch quickly contributes directly to our creative potential, as it allows us to explore solutions from different angles without getting stuck.

3. Reward System Activation: Our brain’s reward system also plays a crucial role. When we engage in playful activities, dopamine—the "feel-good" neurotransmitter—is released. Dopamine not only boosts our mood and motivation but also encourages the formation of new connections between ideas. Essentially, it helps us link different concepts in innovative ways, making playfulness a powerful tool for boosting creativity.

Gamification isn’t just fun—it’s a way to leverage brain science to enhance creativity and innovation! 🎮💡

Link to the full article