Life gets hectic. Remember when you were young and you wanted to be an adult so bad? Little did you know your reward for becoming an adult was a busy life focused on taking care of responsibilities. Even worse, when you do get a chance to sneak in some fun, the opportunity is often too costly to fully enjoy. So you wonder, "Are there any free ways to enjoy life more?"
Yes, my friend! There are! Here's 9 of them:
1. Laugh
Find out what makes you laugh, and figure out how to get more. You don't need to spend money on the latest comedy blockbuster. There are plenty of free funny videos on the internet. If you are sick of watching a screen, all you need to do is spend more time with people who make you laugh.
2. Appreciate the Good Things
There's a reason why waking up with gratitude is recommended for success in so many areas of your life. It works. You will experience more enjoyment when you regularly express true appreciation for what you have to be grateful for.
3. Pay It Forward
Do something nice for someone. Don't you feel better when you know you helped someone? You don't have to buy or donate anything but your time, energy, and attention. When you give to others, you enjoy life more.
4. Take A Nap
According to a survey of 2000 Americans, self-identified nappers were significantly more likely to say they were happy. 90% of nappers were happy, while only 79% of non-nappers could say the same thing. Not only will a nap boost your energy, but it might also make you a little happier.
5. Play
Embrace play as an adult. All work and no play can make you dull and lifeless. Don't know where to start? Let the masters of play guide you! Spend time playing with your children or grandchildren if you need to jumpstart your playful nature.
6. Stop Being Your Own Worst Enemy
Stop beating yourself up mentally. The world will do enough of that. Give yourself credit for being a survivor and achiever. Instead of looking at the downside of a situation, find the silver lining in the cloud. How can you enjoy life if you don't believe you deserve happiness and fulfillment?
7. Take More Walks
There is something magical about how a quiet walk in nature can wash away your worries. Walks are often quiet, introspective, and some would say even meditative. They are a great way to calm your mind and help keep you in the moment. On top of all of that, walks are a low-impact way to get some exercise.
8. Forgive Those Who Have Hurt You
Have you heard that holding onto anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die? That's a great way to express the dangers of resentment. It's a negative, dark, and limiting emotion that can strip joy, happiness, and positivity from your life. Forgive those people that have hurt you. The liberating and positive feelings you get will make you wonder why you embraced resentment for so long.
9. Plan Positive Experiences
Why not schedule joy, happiness, and delight? Put them on your schedule. Plan activities that deliver positivity and happiness rather than just waiting, hoping, and praying they will show up.
FAST-ACTION STEPS
✅ Look at the people you care about. Which of them could use a helping hand? Helping a friend in need is sure to boost both of your spirits.
✅ Take a nap! Even if you have a tight deadline this week, you can find 20 minutes for a quick nap. You might even be more productive afterward.
✅ Plan three free activities or experiences you want to enjoy for the upcoming week.
Quote:
"You can't be that kid standing at the top of the waterslide, overthinking it. You have to go down the chute." - Tina Fey
Coming Up in the Next Issue: Speak Up For Yourself