I've just come back from a 'serious play' long weekend, sailing around the San Juan Islands in Washington (video footage here).  It was a regatta called Round the County that spanned 2 days, saw 64 boats participate, 46 knots of wind the first day and basically none the next day.  We placed 3rd in our division and 8th overall.  Sailing to me is one of the best examples of serious play.  We're all out there giving 110% because we love it and at the same time there is a lot at stake.  Overcoming fears and inihibitions, placing ourselves in unknown territory, pushing the limits of our bodies and designs, because in the end it makes everything seem easier and more alive.  

Tim Brown's Ted Talk on Serious Play came into my inbox this morning.  It's 30 minutes long but it sure is great.  He covers a lot of ground explaining how adults can overcome inhibitions surrounding play, learning from children, breaking habits, defering judgement and the absolute importance of creative experimentation.  

Seriously good stuff!