Try This Today: 6 Small Ways to Have More Fun Even When Life Feels Hard
Timestamps are as accurate as they can be but may be slightly off. We encourage you to listen to the full context.
Podcast Summary
In this episode, Mel Robbins addresses the widespread feeling that life has lost its spark and fun factor, citing everything from social media perfection to burnout as culprits. (00:16) She shares compelling research from Dr. Judith Joseph showing that micro-moments of fun are essential for health and resilience, and that lacking these moments can actually cause burnout and sadness. (19:34) Through personal stories and practical strategies, Mel demonstrates how small intentional changes can bring joy back into our daily lives.
- Main theme: Reclaiming fun and playfulness as essential components of mental health and life satisfaction, not frivolous luxuries
Speakers
Mel Robbins
Mel Robbins is a bestselling author, podcaster, and motivational speaker known for her practical approach to personal development. She's the creator of the 5 Second Rule and hosts one of the most popular self-help podcasts, reaching millions of listeners worldwide with research-backed strategies for improving life satisfaction and mental well-being.
Key Takeaways
Micro-Moments of Joy Are Health Prescriptions
Dr. Judith Joseph's landmark research reveals that small daily moments of joy, fun, and silliness aren't optional luxuries—they're essential prescriptions for mental health. (19:34) These micro-moments create happiness, build resilience, and combat burnout. Conversely, lacking these moments can actually cause feelings of numbness and contribute to depression. This means that prioritizing small acts of playfulness isn't selfish; it's a critical component of maintaining your mental and physical health, especially during stressful periods.
Make One Small Fun Change Daily
Instead of waiting for major opportunities for fun, focus on incorporating one small playful element into your routine each day. (17:05) This could be as simple as wearing colorful glasses, playing music while doing dishes, or sharing a funny weekend story instead of giving a bland response. These micro-changes require minimal effort but create significant shifts in energy and mood, proving that fun doesn't need to be elaborate or time-consuming to be effective.
Say Yes to Uncomfortable Fun
Most meaningful fun experiences come from saying yes to things that initially make you nervous or seem outside your comfort zone. (24:08) Whether it's joining a dance class, attending a company outing, or participating in an activity you're not good at, the key is adopting a "do it for the plot" mentality. Even if the experience isn't enjoyable, the story and laughter that come from it later create lasting joy and connection with others.
Be the Fun Catalyst
Instead of waiting for others to create fun opportunities, take responsibility for driving fun in your relationships and environments. (30:18) Research shows we're naturally drawn to people who initiate playfulness—like the first person on the dance floor or the one who starts the wave at a sporting event. When you become the person who brings games to family gatherings, suggests silly themes for dinner parties, or cracks the first joke in meetings, you give others permission to be playful too.
Embrace Being Bad at Things
Perfectionism and the fear of looking foolish are major fun-killers in adult life. (26:51) Being willing to be terrible at something—whether it's golf, dancing, or karaoke—removes performance pressure and opens the door to genuine enjoyment. When you give yourself permission to be awkward and laugh at your mistakes, you not only have more fun but also model this freedom for others around you.
Statistics & Facts
- The National Cancer Institute reports that regular laughter strengthens your immune system by lowering stress hormones and increases natural killer cells and activated T cells. (11:54)
- Dr. Judith Joseph's research found that happiness is created by increasing small moments of joy and fun, while lacking these moments can be a direct cause of burnout and feelings of numbness. (20:00)
- According to Katherine Price's research in "The Power of Fun," true fun requires three specific ingredients: playfulness, connection, and flow. (13:04)
