My Word This Year: Fun
Every year, I choose a word to anchor my focus and intentions. In the past, my words have been Data, Kindness, Smile, and Breathe. These words shaped my decisions and provided a lens through which I navigated life.
This year, my word is Fun. Not because it sounds lighthearted (though it does), but because I’ve realised fun isn’t a luxury—it’s essential for thriving.
In a world where productivity often equals worth, fun can feel indulgent. But it’s far from frivolous. Fun reconnects us with ourselves, recharges our energy, and helps us find joy in the everyday.
Did you know that even small moments of fun can rewire your stress responses, spark creativity, and build emotional resilience? Fun isn’t just a distraction—it’s transformative.
For me, fun is diving into a great book, taking a swim, or laughing with my family. These moments aren’t about escaping life’s demands—they’re about thriving, finding balance, and flourishing.
Here’s the catch: fun doesn’t just happen—it takes intentionality. In a culture that demands constant output, choosing fun can feel radical. But it’s also a choice to prioritize what makes you feel alive.
Fun doesn’t have to be big or extravagant. It’s found in small, intentional moments:
Taking a walk without a destination.
Trying something new, just for the joy of it.
Turning off your phone to savour a moment.
What’s fun for me might feel like work to you, and that’s okay. The key is discovering your own “fun fingerprint” and fiercely protecting space to honour it.
For me, fun is found in the ordinary but intentional moments: baking with my kids, jumping into the pool for a swim, or getting lost in a favourite book. What’s fun for you?
Choosing fun challenges the belief that productivity defines our value. But fun isn’t the opposite of work—it’s what makes great work possible.
When we prioritize fun, we:
Restore our energy.
Prevent burnout.
Create space for creativity and authenticity.
Fun isn’t just a break; it’s a bridge back to flourishing.
Take Action: Start Small
Fun isn’t just a feel-good idea—it’s a lifeline to a joyful, balanced, thriving life. Here’s how to start today:
Find Your Fun Triggers: List three activities that make you laugh, feel alive, or lose track of time.
Create Space for Joy: Block time this week to do one of these activities. Treat it as non-negotiable.
Protect Your Moments: Say no to distractions, and let yourself fully enjoy your chosen fun.
What About You?
What are some other ways to bring more fun into your life? This is also a cool idea to try with your team.
Let’s share ideas and inspire each other to prioritize joy and flourishing!
#FunToFlourish
#PersonalGrowth
#BurnoutPrevention
#IntentionalLiving
I’m Andrew
I coach leaders, especially those seeking balance and thriving, to help them Flourish.’
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