“Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one.”  Dr. Seuss

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about fun and what it is that fills me with joy and laughter. When I was growing up, my mother and my sister and I used to laugh so hard that I couldn’t catch my breath. And, with tears of joy streaming down my face, we’d start laughing again over the most ridiculous things. Later in life, I would have those same moments with my daughter and friends and now, with my husband. They are joyous moments that often catch me by surprise. And, they really can’t be repeated if you “try” to make them happen. It’s just funny that way. Pun intended.
It’s sounds simple to “just have fun” but it also isn’t always something that we choose as a priority. At least, I haven’t. I know, I know, we can find fun in our work and in our day to day activities but I’m talking about sheer fun, just for the fun of it! It can be tricky to pull it off. So, here are some tips that might be helpful.
1. Be spontaneous- let go of always having to “plan” to have fun. Eliminate the need to have a lot of equipment or stuff or food or guest lists, etc. to have fun.
2. Choose what you really love to do. For me, it’s playing games so one of the things I am doing is creating a regular “game night” to share with my friends.
3. Make time and a commitment. I mentioned in number one that being spontaneous was important. However, it can also be great to make a plan. And, then, make sure nothing will throw you off of your plan to have fun. For example, if you make a commitment to play cards with your friends every Friday, then “show up”! Make it sacred. Something can always get in the way, if you let it.
4. Be present. Don’t let distractions get in the way. Turn off your cell phone and close your computer. Take a deep breath and enjoy the people you are with and, of course, yourself.
5. Don’t take yourself too seriously. It’s okay to be silly and it’s also okay to share being silly with your friends.
6. Add music. I’m sure you’ve had the experience of listening to music that invites you to have more fun, almost immediately. Check out the YouTube video below of the song “Happy” by Pharrell Williams. And, one of the most fun music videos that I’ve watched is below. Enjoy!
6. Practice gratitude. Be grateful for the time and space that you have created for this most precious gift of fun.
What are you doing for fun? Is it a priority in your life? Do you have tips you can share?
I’d love to hear from you at docbeverly@aol.com about your thoughts. I truly would.
Beverly