Are YOU Having Enough Fun?

By Nadine Briggs

Yes, you. I see you turning around to see if I'm talking to the person behind you. I mean you! Are YOU having enough FUN? Have you asked yourself this question? Do you go out with your significant other or friends? Do you laugh regularly?

Many of us are too consumed by kids and worrying about them to focus on fun. We work too much and are often overwhelmed by life. We strive to help our kids achieve active and fulfilling social lives but what about us? Are we too busy for friends of our own? It's okay to take a moment and assess the level of fun in your life.

If it's somewhat lacking, then it's time to make a change. It's time to make a concerted effort to add more laughter and lightness. Not sure where to begin? Here are some ideas:

BBQ - burgers and hot dogs with a salad. Gatherings with friends don't have to be a ton of work or anything fancy. It's the being together that's important.

Call a friend for dinner and a movie.

Grab coffee with a new friend - if friend is new to you and you're feeling uncertain, having coffee is a relatively short encounter and you can decide when you are ready to leave without being awkward.

Have a buddy over to watch a baseball game or the Bachelorette or whatever it is that you like.

Schedule a game night - play LCR (Left, Center, Right dice game), Dominoes, Rummicube or have guests bring their favorite game.

Your social life is just as important as your kids' social life. If you lived in such a way that you had an active social life and were generally happier because of it, isn't that an amazing example to set for your kids?  Wouldn't you be more well-balance and even more prepared to deal with those times when you're overwhelmed?

Say "yes" to laughter. Call a friend. Grab lunch. Have a game night. Go on a date. Make some days just about you.