In life, there are two ways of learning. You can learn the dumb way or the smart way. The dumb way is learning through your own experience while learning the smart way is through others experiences. I have had the gift of being able to learn both ways. The conclusion I have succumbed to is, “creativity tramps all.” Throughout my years of middle school and high school, I’ve noticed that there is nothing unordinary about my appearance. I’m not athletic nor am I knowledgeable in the subjects presented at school. Yet, there are a lot of challenges that I couldn’t believe I’ve accomplished. Luckily, I’m fortunate enough to have loving parents who introduced me to numerous extracurricular activities and possibilities. Through time, my personal belief and ability to “stand on business” has improved. Play, as described by Dr. Peter Gray, is the freedom of a child to discover things refrained inside their heart.

 Play inspires the potential of an individual, while helping them become independent. Although I was encouraged to receive good grades, it was never emphasized. Why? Grades don’t determine who you are, nor will they determine who you become. The inner-self is innate in one’s personality, and it’s something that’s never changed. When you permit a child from finding themself, they become puppets on strings, controlled by the pressures from the world. If you can figure out something you like, your life will have a greater impact trying to inspire others through your passion. 

I’ve had the opportunity to go to Pan American and National Championships simply because I don’t emphasize the outcome. I’m not stubborn. If a certain way doesn’t work, I’ll find another one and repeat the process until it happens. Even so, I found a way to get A’s, progressively make my way to becoming an Eagle Scout, start a Karate Program for younger athletes, and start a drop-shipping business. Through my eye-opening experiences as a kid, freedom, and composure, I held the capacity to balance my life in a crazy way. 

The importance of play outlines the cultivation of an excellent character. It inspires the creativity of one’s self, releases the stress of another, and builds a successful human being. Without play, our world wouldn’t have brilliant individuals who solve universal problems. Next time you have anxiety from something, take a break and try something new.