The way you see things, how you perceive and react both physically and emotionally is driven by your attitude and can change with the situational context.

Notwithstanding your surroundings or state of mind, with attention and effort your perceptions can be controlled.  This does require conscious and self determined action but it is within your control.  For example adopting the optimistic or pessimistic view.

Play or Work

A basic interesting example of this revolves around our daily activities.  That is, do we perceive them to be work or play and more to the point why is there a distinction.

By definition an activity involving mental or physical effort done in order to achieve a purpose or result, often something a person has to do is work.

Play is also activity focused but the meaning of these two words is simply differentiated by the classification of the activity.  Play being activities for enjoyment and recreation rather than a serious or practical purpose.

All in Your Mind

The distinction is subjective and really self determined.  One persons play might be another’s work and vice versa.  We can choose how to view what we are doing.

I would argue we are always doing something and have to., it is the very nature of being. This applies to whether it is for a defined urgent purpose or just to relax, we choose to do it.

Doing nothing is a choice and although it is a circular argument by choosing to do nothing you are in fact doing something.  I find doing nothing challenging, invigorating and enjoyable because I choose to.

Perspective Matters

Although a very simple concept viewing what you are doing as play versus work increases your engagement, enjoyment and effectiveness.

What is wrong with constantly being at play.  It is a more positive state, have fun, enjoy be happy there is no good reason not to and it is your choice.