Cup of Inspiration

Today, May 22, is National Solitaire Day. Today we celebrate this simple pastime available to anyone with a computer, a smartphone, or a deck of cards.

Playing a game of solitaire is a remarkably simple escape. Find a quiet corner in the breakroom, a vacant bench in the park, or even retreat to the couch in your home, and see if you can beat your last game performance. It is ironic that a game that involves strategy and concentration can be very relaxing. However, that is exactly why it is so relaxing. For a few precious moments you are focused on those cards on your screen, or even those on your table if you are playing with real cards. It is solitaire, so there is no other opponent, unless you choose to compete with other solitaire players. You set the bar for success. You decide how long you play. You can even choose the difficulty level if playing an electronic form of the game. If you make a mistake, what are the consequences? You may feel some small disappointment, but you will not stress over this because you know it is not that important. It is just a game.

After a game (or two, or three) then reality comes back. It is time to go back to work, back to finishing any errands for the day, and any other tasks on your to-do list. But for a few precious moments, you enjoy that small break. You feel thrilled when you win. You see the mistakes you made when you lost and learn from those mistakes so you can improve your performance in that next game. You have given your mind a chance to exercise, without the stress of judgement.

These small moments of achievement can be just the thing to help you get through a busy afternoon at work. It can help clear your head at night so you can rest for the evening. Enjoy those moments. The benefits are greater than you realize.