Words of Wellness: Having Some Fun
January 14, 2022 - Culture of Caring - Claudia Finkelstein
It may seem crazy to be asked “when did you last have fun?” in the throes of a never-ending pandemic. But hear me out, I really want you to consider what you do for fun, and how recently you deliberately had any.
We spend a lot of time doing what we ought to do. Either compelled by external demands from our work, or family commitments, or by self-imposed internal demands like our New Year’s resolutions. This is crucial. There are things we need to do. However, even in the face of so much to do, I’d like you to consider penciling in some fun.
When is the last time you thought about doing something just for pure enjoyment? Do you even know what you regard as an enjoyable, fun activity? One person’s idea of fun may seem like torture to another. The thought of planning and creating a complicated cooking project may sound like a nightmare to some but a wonderful way to relax for you. Similarly, a solo winter hike may be right up your alley while sending a shiver down your coworker’s spine. That’s why you need to generate your own list of the things that give you joy or a sense of freedom or whimsy. You know, things you consider fun.
To be clear, I am not recommending sliding into egotistical hedonism or engaging in activity that is pleasant in the short term but ultimately self-destructive. You may find that an activity you already engage in when viewed with a different mindset can be fun. You may find joy in music, comedy, ice-skating or painting. See if you can come up with a list of activities that you consider to be fun. If you have trouble generating the list- that’s valuable information too.
Maybe like many, you have been postponing fun until “things are better.” It is becoming increasingly clear that nobody knows when that will be. It is also clear that fun can do you some good and offer many benefits so don’t put off any longer. Consider doing something that reliably brings you joy or try a completely new activity such as joining our a 9:30 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday mindfulness sessions.
On a personal note, I have reserved a spot at the luge in Muskegon and am working on finding something that makes me laugh daily. The latter activity prompted by a friend who sent me a clip of a comedian – I felt so great after laughing out loud at a brief routine.
So, I’d love for you to ask yourself if there is some way that you could add some lightheartedness to your day or week. Creating intentional moments of joy is a way to find grace within routine and can serve as a positive path forward. Perhaps even add a little more zip in your step!