Why do I sometimes feel being used up?

Why do I sometimes feel being used up? It’s related to the exhausting world of work. I feel a need to check out at the end of the workday because I haven’t felt free during the day.

By contrast, when I feel free I come alive in the same way a child comes alive when playing. When I am immersed in a self-directed task (like play) I am free to dive into the flow of experience. There is nothing to check out from.

The boundary between work and play seems to have to do with creativity and flow. When I feel free to be creative, I find many interesting things to dive into. I can allow whatever comes to evolve and guide my actions wherever my curiosity and interest leads.

There are many things I enjoy, like reading and painting. Painting moves me into a state of flow which feels very relaxing, enjoyable, and freeing.