In this vibrant conversation, guest Lily Higgins, a human-centered designer and founder of the Intervention Bureau, shares her insights on fostering a playful approach to transform modern work culture. She highlights the significance of integrating play into adult life to boost creativity and resilience. Lily also discusses her personal journey from America to the Netherlands, embracing cycling culture, and celebrating connection through unique experiences like a DIY rage room. Their exploration of success redefines professional fulfillment beyond traditional metrics.
Lily Higgins emphasizes the importance of play in adulthood, encouraging a shift in perspective to incorporate joy and curiosity into daily activities.
Through her work with the Intervention Bureau, Higgins highlights the need for intentional strategies to foster belonging and sustainable change within organizations.
Deep dives
Journey of Belonging
Lily Higgins shares her profound journey of belonging as an American who moved to the Netherlands at 18. She highlights the challenges of transitioning from one culture to another while grappling with her evolving identity. Living in the Netherlands for over a decade has exposed her to a different societal framework, allowing her to explore concepts of belonging and her place within it. This experience has shaped her understanding of community and personal connections, prompting her to rethink the essence of her identity.
The Role of Play in Adulthood
Higgins emphasizes that play is an essential but often overlooked aspect of adulthood, describing it as an innate human need rather than a concept reserved for children. She encourages adults to redefine play, viewing it as activities done for joy or curiosity rather than specific outcomes. By identifying moments of flow, engagement, and experimentation in daily life, individuals can reconnect with their inner playfulness. This transformation can lead to increased well-being and innovation in personal and professional environments.
Intentional Design in Organizational Change
Higgins discusses her work with the Intervention Bureau, where she designs immersive learning experiences for organizations facing change. She focuses on fostering a sense of belonging within teams and emphasizes that achieving cultural and organizational shifts requires intentionality. By asking clients fundamental questions about their goals and motivations, she helps them clarify their intentions for improving team dynamics. This strategic approach aims for sustainable change rather than quick fixes, allowing teams to thrive amid challenges.
Redefining Success in Modern Workspaces
Throughout her journey, Higgins has redefined her notion of success, distancing it from traditional markers like wealth and status. She champions a lifestyle that values meaningful relationships, mental well-being, and the ability to engage fully with life. This shift stems from both her artistic background and personal health experiences that stress the importance of balance and fulfillment. By focusing on deep connections and a purpose-driven life, she inspires others to rethink their definitions of success in a more holistic way.
In this lovely conversation with the infectiously energetic Lily Higgins we discuss a rapidly changing generational work culture and how to create positive change through a more playful approach to life and work.