How To Have More Fun As An Adult

The Power of Fun

Remember when life felt a little more carefree and fun? At Healthy Minds NYC, we know part of building a fulfilling life in the city is taking care of our mental health by learning to play better. Unfortunately, when work has dominated our schedules or when our lives have been filled with challenges, we can actually forget how to have a good time.

This summer we wanted to reclaim a little joy for ourselves and clients by reading The Power of Fun by Catherine Price. In the book she makes a great case for rethinking fun by weaving together scientific research and personal experience. Price suggests that perhaps we’ve devoted too much time to activities like doom scrolling news, bingeing Netflix, or posting on social media—all activities she calls “Fake Fun.” Instead, she refines “True Fun” to help us all break away from our devices and find the pathway to real happiness that lies right at our fingertips.

At the start of the book Price sets the stage by introducing three states of fun that might help expand how you view these bursts of joy. She talks about True Fun occurring at the confluence of playfulness, connectedness, and flow.

PLAYFULNESS

According to Price, playfulness is possible with almost any activity. She defines it as “the ability to let down your guard, shed formality, not care too much about outcomes, and open yourself to […] opportunities for humor and lighthearted connection.”

CONNECTEDNESS

It’s no surprise that connectedness is a value part of having fun. As we look at the current statistics on loneliness and the Surgeon General’s recent warning about the epidemic of loneliness that is moving throughout the United States, we understand that building healthy relationships is more important now than ever.

Price points to actively engaging with other people in our lives as an important component of having a good time. This can be through building a community of friends to share your life with or even engaging in fleeting relationships by connecting with a stranger. For example, a conversation with an Uber driver could create a spark of fun or exchanging a genuine smile across the subway car could shift your whole mood.

FLOW

Finally, getting into a flow state can be a type of fun. When you’re in flow, Price says, “you are so engrossed in the activity at hand that you lose track of time.” Flow can last for a few minutes or for long stretches of time when you are fiercely present to a particular activity. If you’ve never experienced a flow moment, at Healthy Minds NYC, we often encourage mindfulness therapy as a useful treatment style to help clients practice the power of being present to get in flow.

FIND YOUR FUN SUPERPOWER

Which of the three states of fun do you most naturally gravitate to in your life? Price offers a complimentary quiz on her website where she helps you find your fun superpower. We love a lighthearted quiz and what a great way to start playing today!

If you are intrigued by what Price has to say about fun and could use a little boost to leverage the power of fun in your life, carve out some time today to watch this quick Ted Talk she delivered recently. Learn more about why Catherine Price claims having fun is the secret to a healthier life.

SCHEDULE A FREE THERAPY CONSULTATION IN NEW YORK

We would love to help you manage some of the stressors and habits that keep you from having more fun. If you’re ready to get started with a therapist today, Healthy Minds NYC is accepting new clients. We are also happy to provide you with a free consultation with one of our Care Coordinators to help you on your search for mental health care. Contact our office at (929) 399-7120 today or schedule now online.