The Power of Play: How Practice Shapes Our Dreams

In this episode of The Leadership Vision Podcast, we’re exploring Chapter 2 of Unfolded: Lessons in Transformation from an Origami Crane, a national bestseller by Dr. Linda and Brian Schubring. This chapter is all about play—how it’s more than just fun and games, and how it serves as essential preparation on the road to fulfilling your dreams.

We explore how play manifests in leadership, growth, and transformation. We also explore metaphors from literal playgrounds to professional development and reflect on how playful practice helps uncover our voice and shape the direction of our lives.

“Play is practice in disguise.” —Dr. Linda Schubring

What is Play, Really?

Play, according to Linda, isn’t just child’s play—it’s a state of discovery, experimentation, and imagination. It’s that space where we can fail safely, try again, and grow. And for leaders and professionals, this is a deeply important part of transformation.

Brian emphasizes that when adults pursue dreams, we often expect a quick bridge from idea to outcome. But real dreams take time, and play gives us the chance to test, refine, and prepare.

“We can accelerate the fulfillment of our dream by how we play and who we’re playing with.” —Brian Schubring

The Playground as Metaphor

A powerful theme in this episode is the playground—both literal and symbolic. Brian describes a local playground with different zones for different developmental stages, surrounded by shelter and filled with shared tools. This, he explains, mirrors the way we grow: in safe, bounded spaces, with support, challenge, and the occasional secret path leading somewhere new.

Linda draws from her own life and professional experience, referencing how she once heard higher education described as a “playground” with many players and roles. This metaphor stuck with her, helping her make sense of complex systems and her place within them.

“Are you growing? If not, it might be time to move to a new playground.” —Dr. Linda Schubring

Knowing When to Leave the Playground

One of the big takeaways from this conversation is learning when to move on. Playgrounds are essential, but staying too long in one can limit your growth. So, how do you know it’s time to go?

Brian shares that we often become blind to the fact we’ve outgrown a space, while Linda suggests a simple reflective question: Are you still growing?

If you’re not learning, surprised, or energized by your current challenges, that’s a sign you may be ready to step out of the playground and into something bigger.

The Fear of Transition

Of course, leaving a familiar space can be terrifying. Linda, Brian, and I discussed the “liminal space” between what was and what’s next. It’s uncomfortable—but essential.

OC, Origami Crane, the allegorical main character in Unfolded, often finds herself unsure, supported by some, doubted by others, and forced to decide. Like her, we all must choose whether to stay safe or take a risk and try.

Play offers us the room to try. Just like comedians test material in small clubs before a Netflix special, leaders can test ideas in low-risk environments before launching into something larger.

Final Takeaways

So, what’s the big message from Chapter 2?

Don’t be afraid to play. Don’t be afraid to try something new. Growth doesn’t always come from grit alone—it can come from joyful experimentation.

Play can be a solo act or something that inspires others. Sometimes our practice encourages someone else to step into their dream.

And maybe, just maybe, that’s the whole point.

Listen to the full episode to hear more about the psychology of play, how it shapes identity, and why it’s essential in leadership and personal transformation.