Running your own business can be exciting, but it can also be stressful. If you don’t take time to rest, relax, and recharge, you can burn out fast. For business owners who are already gamers, the solution is easy – video games are a great way to unwind and release stress. However, being a gamer often comes with a stigma around being childish and lazy.
The truth is there are many benefits to gaming and it’s a legitimate way to reduce stress and sharpen your business skills. Even if you’ve never played before, here’s how you can benefit from gaming.
1. Gaming will encourage you to take breaks
Many entrepreneurs struggle with taking rest breaks throughout the day. Skipping breaks can lead to exhaustion and burnout, especially if you skip meals or forget to hydrate. When you don’t have a boss forcing you to take breaks to avoid labor law penalties, it can be hard to step away without a good reason.
Finding the motivation to take short rest breaks is easy when you have a handheld gaming console like the Nintendo Switch or Steam Deck. All you need is a durable console case and you can bring your device anywhere without worrying about damage. You can play in your backyard, your living room, or take it to the park. If you struggle to find a reason to walk away from your workstation throughout the day, a handheld game console might be exactly what you need.
2. Gaming can encourage emotional regulation
Some games require players to manage their frustration, control emotions, and adapt quickly to big challenges. These skills can be transferred to handling setbacks in your business. Studies have shown that the better you get at managing your emotions, the easier it becomes to engage in solution-focused behavior.
If you’ve heard that playing video games increases aggression and decreases intelligence, that’s just a myth. Even when games are associated with an increase in physical stress markers, they tend to be associated with higher levels of self-reported positive emotions. Studies have failed to show a connection between gaming and negative effects on a person’s social, work, or academic life.
3. Gaming can help manage stress
Stress is inevitable, but it doesn’t need to be hard to combat. There are many ways to reduce stress, like taking herbal supplements and meditating, but sometimes you need more than a quiet time out with a cup of chamomile tea. Sometimes what you need is an immediate distraction to switch gears and forget about your frustrations.
Several studies have shown that playing video games relieves stress simply because it’s an enjoyable activity. Games release dopamine, which creates a euphoric feeling and activates a reward cycle that makes you want to keep playing to get more dopamine. While this isn’t necessarily good long-term (don’t lock yourself away in the basement for three months to play nonstop), it can be an excellent way to cope with minor stress throughout the day.
4. Games can help you stay socially connected
Being an entrepreneur can be isolating at times, but playing games – especially online – can be a bridge to the outside world. Connecting with other gamers creates a sense of community, and many people form friendships with their teammates. Multiplayer games can help entrepreneurs avoid the isolation that tends to come with managing a business from home. According to the Power of Play report, 55% of respondents use video games to combat isolation.
Multiplayer games also help strengthen the ability to solve complex problems while working as a team. These skills are useful in business and can help an entrepreneur build a better business.
5. Some games stimulate your mind
Video games will keep your mind stimulated so you don’t get lost in the monotony of the daily grind. If you don’t enjoy violent or bloody games, there are plenty of G-rated games that incorporate critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. For example, Nintendo Switch offers puzzle games like Tetris 99, Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective, and Thimbleweed Park. You can also find brain training games, musical games, and even crossword puzzles and Sudoku.
6. Multiplayer games promote teamwork
Multiplayer games will strengthen your teamwork skills. Cooperative games require clear communication, and high-stakes games will test your ability to trust others. As a team, you’ll work together to solve problems and overcome challenges, and you can apply those skills to your business.
Gaming is a worthwhile escape
Gaming can make you a sharper business owner, whether you’re seeking stress relief or you just need a good reason to take a break. While video games are a source of entertainment, they’re also a way to get time away from your desk. Don’t let the stigma keep you from having fun. Next time you need a break, grab your ROG Ally or Steam Deck and enjoy some well-earned playtime.