When's the last time you had fun without planning? Here are six ways to be spontaneous and experience its benefits!
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In a world where our schedules are packed tighter than a rush-hour subway car, it's easy to feel like spontaneity is a luxury we can't afford. When was the last time you said yes to hanging out with a friend or going on a trip without planning it?
It might be hard to answer that question, but what if we told you that embracing the unexpected could be the key to unlocking a happier, healthier life?
Age is just a number and that it's never too late to shake things up! Let's dive into the six secrets that reveal the incredible benefits of spontaneity to your well-being!
It turns out that our brains are hardwired to appreciate a bit of unpredictability.
According to a 2023 OnePoll survey, a whopping 60% of Americans feel they don't have enough time in the day to accomplish everything. This constant race against the clock can lead to stress and burnout.
However, when we engage in spontaneous activities, we give our brains a much-needed break from the monotony of routine.
Edward Slingerland, author of Trying Not to Try: Ancient China, Modern Science, and the Power of Spontaneity, and a professor of philosophy at the University of British Columbia, explains that spontaneity is about “doing things in a way that's not forced or overly thought-out.”
He says, “That doesn’t mean it’s mindless necessarily, it just means it’s not overly effortful.” It's about allowing ourselves to be in the moment and letting our minds wander without the distractions of our digital devices.
It could also be as simple as having some unscheduled quality time on your or your family’s calendar. “A big part of spontaneity is actually internal. Our minds need time to wander, or to simply be free from the distractions of social media or news articles,” he explains.
Studies have shown that people enjoy activities more when they are unplanned. This sense of joy comes from the freedom of not having expectations.
When we allow ourselves to say, “anything goes,” we open the door to experiencing more fun and excitement in our lives.
Psychologist Katina Bajaj, co-founder of Daydreamers, emphasizes that new and novel experiences are not only enjoyable but also beneficial for our brain health. She says that, “It’s really helping us to build these new neural pathways that ... should build the density of the brain, which helps us as we age.”
6 Ways to Enjoy Spontaneity Today
1. Digital Detox: Start by putting away your smartphone. Establish “smartphone fasts” to create space for your mind to be open to spontaneous thoughts and actions. Slingerland says that his daughter has self-imposed smartphone fasts that helps her present self guide her future self towards a healthier mind.
2. Awe Walks: Take a walk without a destination in mind. Let your curiosity guide you and pay attention to the beauty around you. This practice can rewire your brain and help you become more present in everyday life. Bajaj says, “It allows us to be more present in everyday life, and that kind of lengthens our experience [of time].”
3. Spontaneous Weekends: Block off one day a week for spontaneous activities only–ideally when there’s no other commitments. Whether it's exploring a new neighborhood, going for a hike, playing a board game, or simply taking a nap, let your desires guide your day.
4. Rediscover Lost Passions: Reflect on activities you used to love but have neglected due to a busy schedule. Miss dancing? Put on some music and let loose. Longing for connection? Call a friend out of the blue. What do you miss? Try doing those things!
5. Accept Last-Minute Invitations: Next time you receive a spontaneous invitation, say yes! Whether it's a movie or a drink with a friend, prioritize the opportunity for an unplanned adventure.
6. Dine on a Whim: Try a new restaurant without reading reviews or deciding what to order in advance. Embrace the possibility that it might not be perfect, but appreciate the adventure of discovery. Maybe it’s going to suck, and then you won’t go back there, but we need to guard against the desire for everything to be optimal,” Slingerland remarks.
When we incorporate spontaneity into our lives, we not only benefit ourselves but also those around us.
Our willingness to be flexible and open can lead to stronger relationships, as we become more available for shared experiences and memories. It also sets a positive example for others, showing that it's possible to break free from the constraints of a rigid schedule.
Have you experienced the spontaneity in your own life recently? What spontaneous activity brought you the most joy recently? Share your stories and tips in the comments below!
Have you experienced the benefits of spontaneity in your own life? What spontaneous activity brought you the most joy recently? Share your stories and tips in the comments below!
It might be hard to answer that question, but what if we told you that embracing the unexpected could be the key to unlocking a happier, healthier life?
Age is just a number and that it's never too late to shake things up! Let's dive into the six secrets that reveal the incredible benefits of spontaneity to your well-being!
It turns out that our brains are hardwired to appreciate a bit of unpredictability.
According to a 2023 OnePoll survey, a whopping 60% of Americans feel they don't have enough time in the day to accomplish everything. This constant race against the clock can lead to stress and burnout.
However, when we engage in spontaneous activities, we give our brains a much-needed break from the monotony of routine.
Edward Slingerland, author of Trying Not to Try: Ancient China, Modern Science, and the Power of Spontaneity, and a professor of philosophy at the University of British Columbia, explains that spontaneity is about “doing things in a way that's not forced or overly thought-out.”
Being constantly scheduled can reduce opportunities for spontaneity, which has several benefits including reducing stress and keeping the brain healthy. Image source: Pexels / Min An.
He says, “That doesn’t mean it’s mindless necessarily, it just means it’s not overly effortful.” It's about allowing ourselves to be in the moment and letting our minds wander without the distractions of our digital devices.
It could also be as simple as having some unscheduled quality time on your or your family’s calendar. “A big part of spontaneity is actually internal. Our minds need time to wander, or to simply be free from the distractions of social media or news articles,” he explains.
Studies have shown that people enjoy activities more when they are unplanned. This sense of joy comes from the freedom of not having expectations.
When we allow ourselves to say, “anything goes,” we open the door to experiencing more fun and excitement in our lives.
Psychologist Katina Bajaj, co-founder of Daydreamers, emphasizes that new and novel experiences are not only enjoyable but also beneficial for our brain health. She says that, “It’s really helping us to build these new neural pathways that ... should build the density of the brain, which helps us as we age.”
6 Ways to Enjoy Spontaneity Today
1. Digital Detox: Start by putting away your smartphone. Establish “smartphone fasts” to create space for your mind to be open to spontaneous thoughts and actions. Slingerland says that his daughter has self-imposed smartphone fasts that helps her present self guide her future self towards a healthier mind.
2. Awe Walks: Take a walk without a destination in mind. Let your curiosity guide you and pay attention to the beauty around you. This practice can rewire your brain and help you become more present in everyday life. Bajaj says, “It allows us to be more present in everyday life, and that kind of lengthens our experience [of time].”
3. Spontaneous Weekends: Block off one day a week for spontaneous activities only–ideally when there’s no other commitments. Whether it's exploring a new neighborhood, going for a hike, playing a board game, or simply taking a nap, let your desires guide your day.
4. Rediscover Lost Passions: Reflect on activities you used to love but have neglected due to a busy schedule. Miss dancing? Put on some music and let loose. Longing for connection? Call a friend out of the blue. What do you miss? Try doing those things!
5. Accept Last-Minute Invitations: Next time you receive a spontaneous invitation, say yes! Whether it's a movie or a drink with a friend, prioritize the opportunity for an unplanned adventure.
6. Dine on a Whim: Try a new restaurant without reading reviews or deciding what to order in advance. Embrace the possibility that it might not be perfect, but appreciate the adventure of discovery. Maybe it’s going to suck, and then you won’t go back there, but we need to guard against the desire for everything to be optimal,” Slingerland remarks.
When we incorporate spontaneity into our lives, we not only benefit ourselves but also those around us.
Our willingness to be flexible and open can lead to stronger relationships, as we become more available for shared experiences and memories. It also sets a positive example for others, showing that it's possible to break free from the constraints of a rigid schedule.
Have you experienced the spontaneity in your own life recently? What spontaneous activity brought you the most joy recently? Share your stories and tips in the comments below!
Have you experienced the benefits of spontaneity in your own life? What spontaneous activity brought you the most joy recently? Share your stories and tips in the comments below!
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