When was the last time you had some fun? I mean real fun. Fun like you had as a child. Laughing so hard your stomach cramped struggling to catch your breath with tears streaming down your cheeks. The “time stood still” kind of fun. When we grow up we get caught up in being responsible and mature. We tell ourselves that mature adults don’t do those kinds of things, that is silly kids stuff. You have my permission to act like a kid. Better yet, give yourself permission to be silly, have fun, get lost in delight. Do it on a regular basis.
For those of you who are out of practice;
- Plan some fun things to do with your friends or family
- When doing the above activities, be in the moment.
- Refrain from questioning if you are having fun or not. If you are you will immediately take yourself out of the moment.
- Reflect back on the time spent paying particular attention to the moments that brought you joy. Tell another person about it or journal about the highlights.
- Repeat often.
The more often you have joyous experiences and relive them in your mind, the better your brain gets at feeling and perceiving joy.