As we get closer and closer to the end of 2016, think about the year you had. Was 2016 an enjoyable year for you? Did it come with losses and grieving? Did it come with additions to the family? Is there anything you would like to change about the way you lived your life? Or was everything as expected? As a New Year begins, many people make New Year’s Resolutions. These resolutions range from losing weight, to changing jobs, to saving more money, to traveling more often…

Whichever resolutions you make for 2017, ways of making life more fun should always be incorporated. Can you remember the last time you truly let go and enjoyed the moment? It’s easy to allow yourself to get wrapped up in the day to day routine of life. You may not even realize it until you have reached that nervous break down, that anxiety attack, or that overpowering physical and mental exhaustion. If it has been way too long, here are some ideas to start the year with a new mentality.

• Stop worrying about what other people will think

I know it’s easy to become lost in the “What are they thinking about me?” or “Do I look silly?” But, the majority of the time people don’t think about you as often as you think they do. And, if you are around that minority who are very attentive and judgmental of your every move, then maybe it’s time to reconsider those relationships.

• Some of the best things in life are free

Vacations out of the country are so much fun, yet they can get pricey quick. Even traveling out of the state or city can be a little over your budget. That is why it is great to remember that enjoying time with loved ones does not have to cost anything. There are many places locally that offer free to low cost entertainment.

• Yes, you do have time

Work, family, home can get very busy. It is important to remember that no matter how hectic your schedule is, taking out 30-60 minutes a day can prove very beneficial to your health.

• No, you don’t have to plan everything

Spontaneous, unplanned moments can turn out to be surprisingly fun. I know this might be a difficult one for Type A planners, but allow yourself to be in the present moment and experience spur-of-the-moment activities.

• Enjoy life

You only have one life, enjoy it!

• Things don’t have to be perfect

We would like life to go the way we have planned it, but the majority of the time it does not happen that way. That’s okay. Enjoy imperfection and allow yourself to have fun with it.

• Appreciate the little moments

Fun is what you make it. It may be planning a big day with your children, and finding the most enjoyable moment being when your little one comes up to you, gives you a hug, and tells you he loves you, out of nowhere.

If you are having difficulty incorporating “having fun” into your every day life, if you are eager to see the benefits associated with a more positive outlook on life, please contact Life Enhancement Counseling Services today at 407-443-8862 to schedule an appointment with one of our Orlando mental health counselors.