5 surprisingly easy and fun ways to enjoy yourself

Doing something new today won’t just get you out of your routine, it might also help you feel better. In fact, adding a little novelty and fun to your life can help ward off depression, dementia, and many other mental health problems.

You don’t have to do something extravagant or time-consuming like traveling the world or writing a novel. Small changes can be just as satisfying as big leaps.

“If you want to continue being satisfied in your life, do new, surprising things, and varied activities,” says Sonja Lyubomirsky, Ph.D., distinguished professor of psychology at the University of California, Riverside, and author of The Myths of Happiness and The How of Happiness. “Open yourself up to new opportunities and challenges.”

“It’s important to seek new hobbies and interests because we generally adapt to our own set point of happiness,” according to Megan Robbins, Ph.D., associate professor in the department of psychology at the University of California, Riverside.

“Whatever you do for fun, the key is to not allow any of these activities to become routine or habitual,” Robbins says. “The benefits of something new come from its novelty in addition to the other positive aspects of it, like social connectedness.”

While there’s nothing wrong with turning an activity you enjoy into a regular hobby, it’s important to pursue fresh interests, too.

Fresh ideas to try now

Trying new things can stimulate your brain and positively affect your mood. “Some new activities may ‘keep you young’ if they are mentally challenging or require you to learn new information,” Robbins says.

If you’re looking for some inspiration, try these suggestions from Robbins and Lyubomirsky:

• Do a word game, puzzle, or activity that challenges you and requires you to learn new information.
• Express gratitude to someone, whether over a phone call or in writing.
• Engage in a non-routine act of kindness, such as paying someone a compliment.
• Make a point to savor life’s joys, such as celebrating when something good happens. Even if it’s something small, a little acknowledgement and celebration could make a big difference.
• Learn a new skill through an online course, such as coding or learning a new language.

Don’t feel as though you need to make massive changes in your life to start feeling inspired. Start small with the tips listed above and continue to add more fresh experiences to your life as you feel comfortable.