Mini guide for fun

This guide is all about making sure you’re actually having fun. Not just occasionally, but regularly. Because let’s face it: life’s better when you’re enjoying it. So, let’s figure out how to bring more play, adventure, and joy into your everyday.

Step 1: Reflect

Time to check in on your fun levels. And no, binge-watching a show because you’re too tired to move doesn’t quite count (though it has its place!).

  • Be honest: When was the last time you did something purely because it was fun? If you have to think too hard, we’ve got some work to do.

  • It could be hiking, gaming, dancing like no one’s watching, or cooking up a storm. If it makes you smile, write it down—it’s a keeper.

  • Are you squeezing fun into your life as an afterthought, or do you make intentional plans to have a good time? Spontaneity is great, but sometimes you need to pencil in the fun stuff, too.

  • Too busy, too tired, or just too stuck in a routine? Identifying what’s getting in the way is the first step to changing it.

  • If your idea of fun is starting to feel a bit stale, it’s time to shake things up. Could you mix in something new to keep things interesting?

  • Both have their perks! But if you’ve been doing the same thing alone and it’s feeling old, maybe it's time to rope in some friends or family for a different vibe.

Step 2: Identify

Now, let’s figure out where you can improve your fun game. It’s about finding what works for you, whether it’s big adventures or tiny joys.

  • There’s probably something you’ve been putting off—like that pottery class, trivia night, or trying your hand at gardening. Let’s make it happen!

  • Look at your week. If your schedule is all work and no play, then it’s time for a change. Block off time that’s strictly for fun—and keep it non-negotiable.

  • If your idea of fun always looks the same, it might be time for a shake-up. Think of activities you’ve never tried before (maybe salsa dancing or axe throwing?).

  • Is there a friend or family member you haven’t seen in a while? Doing something fun together could make it even better—especially if it’s something neither of you have tried before.

  • Not everything has to be a learning experience or a self-improvement task. Sometimes fun is just... fun. Give yourself permission to enjoy it without expecting anything more.

  • Fun doesn’t have to be a weekend event—it could be blasting your favorite song while cooking dinner or taking a different route home just for a new view.

  • Be honest: Are you "partying" too much or opting to go out with friends every night and not doing anything productive? Is it time to cut down on the fun times?

Step 3: Create an action plan

Alright, let’s plan out some fun. Start small and make it a habit—you deserve it.

    • Schedule one fun thing a week: Set a recurring “fun appointment” in your calendar. Whether it’s going for ice cream or trying a new hobby, give it the same priority as a work meeting (but way more enjoyable).

    • Try something new: Pick one activity you’ve always wanted to try and just do it. Could be a dance class, an escape room, or even learning to juggle. You’ll never know until you give it a go.

    • Create a “fun bucket list”: Write down 10 things you want to do just for fun. Keep it somewhere you’ll see often (maybe on the fridge) to remind you to actually do them.

    • Plan a mini-adventure: It doesn’t have to be far or expensive. A day trip to a new town, a hiking trail you haven’t tried, or even a weekend camping trip can feel like an adventure and break up the routine.

    • Join a group activity: Sign up for something social—a club, sports league, or a recurring event. This adds fun plus accountability, so you’re more likely to stick with it.

    • Mix up your routine: If you’re bored of the usual, try changing one part of your routine just for fun. Take a different route to work, swap your morning coffee for a morning walk, or start having themed dinners at home (taco Tuesdays, anyone?).

    • Take a big trip or plan a major event: If you’ve got the budget and time, make a big plan—like traveling somewhere new or hosting an epic game night for friends. It gives you something exciting to look forward to.

    • Cultivate a hobby: Find a hobby that you enjoy and stick with it. Whether it’s gardening, painting, or rock climbing, long-term hobbies keep your fun bucket full.

    • Make fun a mindset: Instead of thinking of fun as something you need to “fit in,” start looking for ways to make everyday things more enjoyable. Get playful, be curious, and let yourself enjoy the small stuff.

Step 4: Regular check-ins and accountability

Fun might seem like it doesn’t need a plan, but keeping it consistent means you actually have to think about it now and then.

Weekly fun reflection: At the end of each week, ask yourself: Did I have fun this week? What was the best part? This way, you’ll start recognizing what really brings you joy (and do more of it).

Monthly “new experience” goal: Every month, try something new. It could be as simple as cooking a dish from a new cuisine or going to a museum you’ve never visited. Keeps things interesting and the fun meter high.

Bring in a fun accountability buddy: Find someone who also wants more fun in their life and make plans together. Go on adventures, try new activities, or just encourage each other to keep the fun alive.

Celebrate your fun milestones: Did you finish a big project at work? Reward yourself with something fun—like that pottery class or a night out with friends. Treat fun as the well-earned reward it is.

  • Example action plan for fun

    Here’s how someone might use this guide to boost their fun factor:

    Current situation: You’ve realized that most of your week is all work, very little play. Your “fun” activities are getting stale, and you want to add more excitement back into your life.

    Reflection:

    • You find joy in cooking, but it’s become routine.

    • You’re interested in more social activities but haven’t had time to make plans.

    Action plan:

    • Short-term: Schedule one new activity every weekend—like trying a new restaurant or going to a cooking class. Create a “fun bucket list” and put it on the fridge as a visual reminder.

    • Mid-term: Join a local cooking club or community class to meet new people and learn new skills. Plan a weekend getaway to a nearby town—something adventurous but easy to pull off.

    • Long-term: Take up a new hobby, like rock climbing, and commit to sticking with it over the year. Start planning a big trip with friends that you can look forward to (and maybe save for).