I tend to be a very regimented person. And while this definitely helps me in a lot of situations (like exercise, work, personal finance, for example), it can also leave me feeling in a rut. The problem is that most of the areas of my life in which I’m regimented tend to be the responsible, less-fun stuff. Yes, there is a type A side to me…*sigh*
This exact situation arose just a few weeks ago. I had been putting a lot of time and energy into work and I didn’t feel like I had been as social as I’d like to be, and I also didn’t feel like I had that “zest” for life that just makes everything more enjoyable. I’ve come to realize that this to signals that I need to shake things up–or more specifically, it shows me that work and other practical elements are blocking my other needs, like that of play.
Because, and let’s get this straight, I am a very silly dude. Yes, I will probably impersonate Christopher Walken on the plane, and yes I am the person playing an acoustic version of T-Pain’s 2007 classic, “Buy you a drank.” In fact, after meeting someone who I consider to be exceptionally silly themselves (think jacked guy who talks about himself in third person and constantly make his pecs dance), this person later told a mutual friend that he thought I was, and I quote, “one weird dude.”
I am truly flatted.
But I digress. By feeling this lack of “zest,” I knew that I wanted to make a change and let this silly side roam free. So I requested two days off from work a few weeks in advanced during a time I knew I would have less to do and booked a trip to visit a friend in Atlanta, GA. As soon as I booked the trip, I knew it was very needed. Just the thought of having a trip to look forward to both energized and settled me, as I felt a strong sense of patience knowing I had set aside time to rejuvenate and nourish my mind and body.
When the trip finally arrived, I had a blast. It was great to catch up with my friend, spend time outdoors in the warmer climate, physically distance myself from responsibilities, and experience a new culture. I also felt tremendously present–I remember my friend pointing out on how observant I was of little things, as I was constantly saying things like “Wow what gorgeous flowers over there…and look at the shape of that building!”
Taking this trip has reminded me of how important it is to have little adventures from time to time. It can bring renewed freshness and time away from your normal routine can remind you why you do it in the first place. I felt grateful I had the opportunity to have a job that allows for time-off, collaborative co-workers, and interesting work.
Are you feeling like you could use a change in your routine? Though taking a trip is a great way to do this, it is not always practical or possible. But there are ways to regain a sense of adventure or playfulness in your day-to-day routine.
Consider having a theme of playfulness for the day–play a small prank, watch a funny youtube video, speak all day in an terrible British accent, or revisit an inside joke with a friend. Remember, playfulness is certainly a skill that you practice rather than a trait. If you don’t feel like you are that playful, just give it a try, you will surprise yourself.
Stay zesty folks!
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