As the New Year begins, we often focus on resolutions that are serious—more productivity, stricter diets, longer work hours. But what if this year, instead of focusing on doing more, you focused on feeling more joy? Research shows that prioritising play, fun, and connection can make you not only happier but also more successful in the long run.
This January, let’s explore how setting playful resolutions can help you start the year with a mindset focused on joy, well-being, and personal growth.
Why Joy Should Be Your Resolution
We tend to think of success as the key to happiness—believing that if we work hard, achieve our goals, and hit milestones, joy will naturally follow. But according to happiness research from experts like Dr. Martin Seligman, the father of positive psychology, it’s actually the other way around: joy leads to success.
When you prioritise happiness and fun, it boosts your energy levels, increases creativity, and improves your ability to solve problems. It’s no surprise then that those who focus on play and positivity are more likely to be resilient and find success in all areas of life, from personal relationships to their careers.
How to Set Playful Resolutions
So, how do we take this research and turn it into meaningful resolutions? The key is to focus on intentional playfulness—incorporating more fun, connection, and light-hearted moments into your everyday life. Here’s how:
1. Schedule Time for Play: Just like you would schedule time for work or exercise, set aside time each week for pure fun. This could be attending one of our playful events, having a game night with friends, or taking up a hobby like painting or dancing that brings you joy.
2. Prioritise Connection: Make it a goal to engage in social play. Whether that’s joining a sports league, attending a local community event, or even just playing board games with your family, these moments of connection have long-term benefits for your mental well-being.
3. Focus on the Process, Not the Outcome: Often, we feel pressured to turn hobbies or fun activities into something “productive” or goal-oriented. This year, resolve to engage in activities simply for the joy of it, without worrying about the outcome. Whether it’s learning a new dance move or trying your hand at pottery, the key is to enjoy the process.
4. Make Playfulness Part of Your Daily Routine: Look for small ways to add play into your everyday life. This could be a five-minute dance break, doodling during lunch, or even sending funny memes to friends. Small moments of fun can drastically improve your mood.
The Science Behind Playful Resolutions
There’s plenty of research to support the idea that playful resolutions can boost your happiness and mental health. Studies in positive psychology have shown that engaging in activities that bring joy can lower stress levels, increase creativity, and make you more optimistic. Dr. Seligman’s PERMA model, which focuses on Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment, highlights how these playful elements contribute to long-term happiness.
Additionally, research by Dr. Stuart Brown, a leading expert on play, shows that incorporating fun into your routine enhances cognitive function and helps people cope better with stress. When adults engage in play, they allow themselves to disconnect from rigid thinking patterns, which helps their brains recharge and stay flexible.
For The Big Kids: Let’s Play in 2024!
At For The Big Kids, we believe that joy and play are essential parts of life, especially for adults! This year, let us help you turn 2024 into the year of playfulness and connection. Whether you’re attending one of our fun-filled events or engaging in spontaneous moments of fun, we’re here to remind you that joy isn’t just for kids—it’s for all of us!
Try This: Kick Off Your Year with a “Fun Jar”!
Here’s a playful way to stick to your resolution all year long: Create a Fun Jar! Write down fun activities you’d love to try in 2024—everything from mini-adventures like trying a new restaurant to bigger plans like a weekend trip. Each week, pull an activity from the jar and make it happen. By the end of the year, you’ll have a collection of joyful memories!
Call to Action: Let’s Make 2024 a Playful Year!
What’s one playful resolution you’re going to set for the New Year? Share it with us on social media using the hashtag #BigKidsResolution, and let’s kick off 2024 with joy, play, and connection!
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Ready to make play a priority this year? Check out our upcoming events and discover how you can start the New Year with joy and laughter.
Sources:
- Dr. Martin Seligman’s PERMA model on positive psychology.
- Dr. Stuart Brown’s research on the benefits of play for adults.
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