We never outgrow imagination. It’s not just for kids—we all have an imagination, but sometimes we misplace it and let it fuel worry, fear, and dread. Instead of imagining joy or creativity, our minds can spiral into anxiety, making up worst-case scenarios that haven’t even happened yet. The truth is, we didn’t lose our imagination; we’ve just redirected it toward heavier thoughts, full of “what ifs” and worries.
But here’s the good news: since our imagination is still there, it can always be brought back to life. Plexing is a great way to reconnect with our creativity and get our imagination back on track. By engaging in Plexful activities, we practice using our imagination for exploration, fun, and creativity. For example, you could imagine a backstory for a piece of art you’re exploring—thinking about the artist’s life, what inspired the colors, or what’s happening in the scene. Or, if you’re into painting, you could let your mind wander and come up with new, playful ways to use paint, like mixing unexpected colors or experimenting with different textures. These simple shifts in how we use our imagination help us move away from anxious thoughts and into a more playful, joyful mindset. As we practice this, our imagination starts seeking out more of those positive, creative experiences rather than getting stuck in worry.
Of course, we don’t have to rely solely on Plexing to redirect our imagination. We can also consciously choose to focus on fun, creativity, or even absurdity. When we notice our thoughts drifting toward anxiety, we can tell ourselves, “Wait, let’s redirect this!” For example, you might imagine something playful like an outlandish new hobby or a funny twist on a familiar situation. That intentional shift helps break the cycle of worry and brings back the sense of curiosity and wonder.
Plexing is all about reigniting that freedom and creativity we had as kids, when imagination was a tool for fun and exploration. By intentionally choosing to redirect our focus from worry to play, we can guide our imagination back to its true purpose: helping us explore new possibilities and find joy in unexpected places. The more we practice this, the easier it becomes to train our minds to focus on play and creativity. So the next time you catch yourself spiraling into worry, try asking: “What if I used my imagination to dream up something fun or silly instead?” The more we do this, the more natural it becomes to use our imagination for growth, fun, and freedom.
