NextAvenue.org has permission to reproduce this article.It is fascinating to consider what makes you happy. It's a long-standing question that many philosophers and scholars have spent their entire lives studying.However, few people really question or research what having fun means and why it is important for our well-being. This applies even to adults and the second half of our lives.To understand and expand on the meaning of fun, I spent five years interviewing people from all walks of society. I collected over a thousand narratives and hundreds of images for photo ethnography. Additionally, I conducted multiple experiments and analyses to develop a theory about fun.My research on fun revealed the following:My research has shown that fun is a psychological experience that allows for temporary release from innerized restrictions. For example, if you are actively engaged in an activity to enjoy it, this may allow you to free yourself from social obligations or other self-imposed rules. While individuals might choose different types of activities, they all experience fun in a way that is liberating and hedonistic.Also, see: Can you avoid making stupid decisions in your old years?This concept can be illustrated by a memorable interview I had in the early 70s with Greg, a retired teacher.Greg immigrated from Greece when he was seven years old and settled in New York City ever since. Before retiring, he was a 35-year-old language teacher. As he proudly explains his teaching experience, it is clear that his career achievements have brought him happiness and meaning.Greg's youthful enthusiasm changes as we talk about Gregs fun experiences. As he takes off his black beret, I feel pure joy and happiness. He then steps towards the middle of the room and tells me that he will teach me Zorba the Greek spirit.Greg sings a Greek folk song completely spontaneously, using a medium-pitched vibrato and conversational voice. At each beat, he takes diamond steps and jumps up in a sort of scissors kick. He also claps his hands between his kicks.It's only a moment, but it is magical.This retiree considers dancing the pinnacle of entertainment.Greg recalls his dance adventures in Manhattan decades ago, when he used to go to clubs. Most of these are now closed. Greg considers dancing the best form of entertainment.It's what makes it so much fun. He says it's a complete abandon. The music inspires you and makes you jump up and down. Like, you let go. You let go of all your worries. You dance and get up.Greg points out the essential point of fun, even though dancing may not be for everyone. The essence of fun is a feeling of freedom. It's about letting go and being free.Fun is found in temporary relief from psychological and other obligations, whether you're dancing on the dance floor, hiking on a nature trail, or playing golf. It is not what type of activity matters. What matters is how it engages you with a feeling of liberation.This is why having fun is so important for happiness, particularly in adulthood and later on in life. Fun is a great way to balance the stresses of life and live a happier, more fulfilling life.Sometimes, life's daily grinds can overwhelm even the most devoted of people. This seems to be more common in middle age. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that suicide rates are highest at 50 years old in the United States. They also peak between 40 and 60 years of age.Medicare also covers doctor visits and hospital care. Did you know that Medicare also covers grief counseling, and depression screening?Fun: The antidote for midlife depressionFun is one of the strongest antidotes to midlife depression.It is ironic that we don't take having fun as seriously, despite the fact that, according to my research, it is a key contributor to our overall happiness.My study of 200 U.S. adults revealed that fun has a positive effect on happiness. This means that no matter your age, having fun will also contribute to happiness.Further analysis revealed that happiness is independent of fun, even when other contributors like meaningfulness and sensory pleasure are taken into account.Perhaps we have been influenced by modern society's demands, and place too much emphasis on happiness and finding meaning in our lives (via work accomplishments or relationships with others).If you are so focused on your career, parenting, or other pursuits, it might seem distant to spend significant money and time having fun. When was the last time that you did this? Feelings of guilt may be triggered.My advice: Have funThe art of having fun is realizing that fun is a temporary release form internalized limitations while engaging in a pleasurable activity. Even if it is temporary, this feeling of being free and unrestricted can make you happier and help you to overcome any challenges as your life returns to its purpose.Continue reading: Here are 3 essential elements to a happy retirementMy research shows that the best way to do this is to create a time and place where you are free to have fun and interact with others.I hope so. Have fun.Travis Tae Oh is an assistant professor of Marketing at the Sy Syms School of Business, Yeshiva University. His research is focused on consumer psychology and behavior. He has a keen interest to how pleasure, especially through experiential consumption, can influence people's lives.This article was reprinted with permission from NextAvenue.org, Inc. 2021 Twin Cities Public Television, Inc.Next Avenue has more:
