The science behind not taking yourself so seriously

How often do you allow yourself to look a little silly, goof around, and do something purely joyful - forgetting the rest of the world for a moment?

For many of us, those moments are rarer than we’d like to admit. Somewhere between responsibilities, expectations, and being “a grown-up,” playfulness tends to slip quietly off the list. Not because we don’t enjoy it - but because we don’t see it as essential.

I know how powerful those moments can be. I love them deeply, and many of my most memorable ones are with my family - like the one captured in this photo with my son. Moments of playfulness, laughter, and presence that stay with you long after they’re over.

These moments may look small from the outside, but they have a surprisingly big impact on how we feel and how we show up in the world.

That’s exactly what author Catherine Price explores in her book "The Power of Fun", where she introduces the idea of "True Fun." She describes true fun as a state that emerges when three elements come together:

• Playfulness - a lighthearted spirit that allows you to do something just for the sake of it, without worrying about outcomes or appearances.

• Flow - being so engaged in the experience that time seems to disappear.

• Connection - a sense of shared experience, often with others, but sometimes with nature, an animal, or even yourself.

When these three are present, something shifts, not just emotionally, but physically as well.

From a positive psychology perspective, fun is far more than a "nice-to-have." Research shows that fun brings us into the present moment, lowers stress, and boosts energy. It enhances creativity and productivity, strengthens resilience, and helps us build meaningful social bonds. It even reconnects us with our more authentic selves - the parts of us that feel spontaneous, curious, and alive.

There’s also a powerful upward spiral at play: having fun makes us happier, and when we’re happier, we naturally create more opportunities for fun.

So why do we struggle to have more of it?

One reason is that we tend to treat fun as optional, something we’ll get to after everything else is done. Another is that we underestimate how much intention fun actually needs. In reality, fun often requires planning, protection, and a willingness to let go of self-judgment.

If you want more fun in your life, start by treating it like any other important well-being practice. Schedule it. Carve out time for it. Protect it the way you would protect sleep, movement, or rest.

It also helps to notice common fun killers: constant distractions (yes, that phone), self-consciousness ("How do I look doing this?"), and inner judgment ("This is silly"). Fun thrives when these voices soften.

The next time you plan something “fun,” try asking yourself: Will this help me feel playful? Will it pull me into the present moment? Will it help me feel connected?

Prioritizing fun is not indulgent - it’s an investment in your mental, emotional, and physical health. And it doesn’t just benefit you. When you’re more energized, relaxed, and uplifted, you naturally show up differently for the people around you.

So maybe the question isn’t whether you have time for fun - but whether you’re willing to give yourself permission for it.

So why don't you start with this?