Fun is Fundamental
A friend recently texted, “Let’s plan something fun!” I paused. Not because I didn’t want to but because I wasn’t sure what that even meant for me right now.
That surprised me. I used to have a clear sense of what sounded fun. But in that moment, I came up blank. I realized I hadn’t been actively inviting fun into my life for a while and I hadn’t noticed it slipping away.
The Shift Away from Fun
When we’re young, fun is effortless. It finds us—on playgrounds, in games, in laughter that comes easily and often. We don’t have to plan for it; we’re open to it.
But as we move through life, things shift.
Responsibilities grow. Hard decisions, heartache, and the weight of “being the adult” settle in. Somewhere along the way, fun can start to feel like a luxury and something we’ll get back to once everything else is handled.
And for those approaching or entering retirement, this can be especially true. After decades of structure, purpose, and productivity, it’s easy to forget what unstructured joy even looks like. But this season of life offers a powerful opportunity to rethink that.
Why Fun Isn’t a Luxury
Fun isn’t frivolous. It’s essential.
In fact research shows that laughter and lightness can improve physical health, reduce stress, strengthen relationships, and even enhance cognitive resilience.
When we make space for what brings us joy, even in small doses, we shift our energy, perspective, and well-being.
Re-Opening the Door to Fun
You don’t need a grand reinvention. But you do need to notice what lifts you. Here are a few ways to begin:
Notice What Sparks You
Think small: What makes you smile? What brings a sense of ease or lightness? It might be music, nature, movement, conversation, creating something, or simply being spontaneous again.
Build It In
Fun doesn’t always need more time. It needs more intention. Weave it into your day instead of waiting for it to appear.
Give Yourself Permission to Play
Try something new or rediscover something old without pressure to be good at it. Fun doesn’t come from performance. It comes from presence.
Make it Social
Joy is often amplified when it’s shared. Invite someone to join you. Plan something light. Connect without needing a reason.
You Don’t Grow Out of Fun
You grow into a new relationship with it.
And if you’re on the runway from career into retirement, this is a key moment to reclaim it. Not just as an escape but as a resource. As fuel for this next chapter.
So consider this your invitation. Not to chase fun, but to welcome it back.No outcome needed. Just joy.
Because at any age and any stage, fun is still fundamental
Conflux Retirement Coaching is about merging the best of who you are with who you want to become. As you move to and through retirement, remember Fun is Fundamental. Weave joy, lightness, ease and laughter into your days. If it feels elusive, build opportunities into your calendar to help build the habit of bringing in the fun!
