The title of this blog is inspired by a book I read last year that had a lasting impression on me. The Power of Fun by Catherine Price made me stop and think about how much fun I was having – or not having, as the case was for me at the time – and re-evaluate what actually constitutes fun for me in my current stage of life.

Things change. What felt fun in my early twenties definitely doesn’t feel like fun now. Back then, I’d spend my whole working week looking forward to weekend nights out with friends. But, becoming a parent, starting a self-development journey, and getting increasingly interested in health and fitness completely changed my outlook on life, and how I wanted to spend my spare time.

On reflection, dancing and drinking until the early hours was never fun for me, it was just what everyone else was doing. I now found enjoyment in going to the gym, cooking, business networking, and reading self-development books.

I read Catherine Price’s book as part of an online book club, and it made me realise that I was doing nothing at all that was purely for the sake of having fun. Everything I did – although enjoyable – had an ulterior motive. Making money, improving my health, deepening my connection with myself, growing my business. What would bring me joy, just for joy’s sake? I didn’t know any more! I wasn’t into music or dancing, and I hadn’t had any hobbies as a child.

Coincidentally, part way through the book, I found myself at a rollerskating rink with my son and the foreign students we were hosting at the time. I wasn’t planning on skating. I was just there as the responsible adult. But when I was asked what size skates I wanted, I responded, dutifully handed my own shoes over, and felt sure I was about to be humiliated by my lack of coordination and balance! Not only did I surprise myself by being able to stay upright and keep myself moving, but I actually enjoyed myself. I had fun! I instantly thought of the book, and recognised why fun was so important. Because I could feel it! The feeling that came from doing something purely to elicit joy.

I knew I needed to try out different ways to have fun, so I could build a better picture of what fun meant to me and what activities I could take part in to get that feeling regularly. I asked a friend to teach me how to lino print, and I enjoyed how relaxing and creative it was. I got out on my bike, but not for fitness – for fun! I planned adventures on my paddleboard and started reading fiction again.

It's important to engage in self-improvement, education, fitness, wellness, relaxation and growth, but fun is also essential for a well-balanced, well-lived life. Ask yourself these questions: what feels like fun to me now? What am I doing just for fun? How could I make time for more fun in my life?

If you want some more guidance and to ponder on the big questions in life, why not check out the Philosopher-in-Residence series. Out every fortnight on a Thursday, and written by our Principal Planner, Anna Pascoe.  You can take a peek at the latest edition here: ON CELTS - Make Me A Plan