Ideas to have more fun in life.

[sunshinechaser]

I've been feeling over the last few years that I'm maybe not as happy as I used to be. I've got a great life-love my DH and family, like my job and I love where I stay. However I've had a nagging feeling that there's something missing as I mindlessly go through the mechanics of everyday busy family life and somehow want 'something' to change to make me feel happier.
Anyway I listened to a podcast today that really resonated with me. It talked about happiness being categorised into hedonic happiness and eudaimonic happiness.
Hedonic happiness is having fun, concentrating only on yourself and maximising pleasure. Eudaimonic happiness is a deeper well being associated with a sense of purpose in life.
So I'm fine for the eudaimonic side of things but I've just realised I never really prioritise time for pure hedonic pastimes to increase happiness.
I don't actually know how to do this. I walk the dog, I exercise, I spend time with friends and these are all great but is there more I could do to bring happiness?
What do you do to make yourself happy? I'm not creative at all so wouldn't like anything arty.
If anyone is interested the podcast episode is the Mel Robbins podcast 'The secret to a happy life: What the ultimate study on happiness revels'

me neither lol

It's probably mentioned but whatever your hobby club is running or whatnot dress up and go for food/drinks; usually a big laugh
someone said choir, we joined a gospel choir for a night, it was one of the highlights of my life 🥹
also love getting the train to a new place

@Riverswims I don't have any hobby clubs at all. I'm not great at joining group things (I'm quite shy). The thought of walking into a group activity on my own makes me feel sick with anxiety! And there's nothing really near me that interests me that much. I used to run but have switched that for weights now that I'm 50.
I've been trying to think of other fun things I could do either in my own or with DH or friends.

I'm embarrassed to admit how many times I read part of your post in French.

Les Mills. Like several mills...

@Frith2013 look 😂 😂
Yes I can see why you did that! Don't know why I felt the need to state the name of the exercise/meditation trainer videos. Maybe in case someone else fancied doing them?

I've recently re-discovered my love of live events. Whether that is comedy, concerts or theatre. DH and I have decided to go to more of these.... we've just booked to see Derren Brown live next year.

I also like researching holidays and having something booked in advance. Don't underestimate how nice it is to have things in the calendar you're looking forward to.

Get a really good vibrator.

Book yourself in at a salon for a treatment and then book a repeat appointment when you're there. I go every 6 weeks just for a treat to myself. Sometimes I get a pedicure, other times a facial or a massage. Just something to make me feel good.

Find a really good series to watch and a new book to read. Listen to a podcast that you find interesting or that makes you laugh.

I do all of these things @GameOfJones! Even the really good vibrator 😂

Spend some money on a good pen and use it happily.

As an idea… I took a random Monday off work today and climbed a mountain. Still on an absolute high from it (excuse the pun) and probably will be all week. Currently sat at home with a glass of well earned wine and researching which one to do next…

I also saw a couple of people open water swimming. They spent the whole time with huge smiles on their faces and just looked like they were really living life.

fair enough. I hope you find something maybe further away? to interest you x