While I think it’s totally okay to do and eat whatever the heck you want while traveling, sometimes making an effort to do a few things for your self-betterment. Just because you’re on vacation mode, doesn’t mean you can’t add in some healthy things without depriving yourself of the local fun!

I feel so much better when I have a little me-time or some version of a routine in place, and make a couple of healthy choices while enjoying a new adventure. Like everything, it’s a balance!

So if you’re looking to add some self-care to your summer travels, we’ve got you covered on everything from your packing list to your plane ride to when you are enjoying your destination.

Here’s a list of self-care activities you can add to your travel itinerary:

1. Pack a comfortable pillow or neck support for the plane or long car rides.
2. Bring your favorite book or download an audiobook to enjoy during your travels.
3. Bring a journal to write about your experiences.
4. Take time to stretch and do some light yoga or exercise.
5. Wear comfortable and breathable clothing. And pack comfortable shoes!
6. Stay hydrated by bringing a refillable water bottle.
7. Use SPF to protect your skin from the sun.
8. Wear a hat or sunglasses to protect your face and eyes.
9. Take breaks and rest when you need to.
10. Bring your own snacks to keep you fueled and satisfied.
11. Practice deep breathing or meditation to help reduce stress and anxiety.
12. Listen to calming music or your comfort podcasts.
13. Use noise-canceling headphones to block out unwanted noise.
14. Take a warm bath or shower to relax after a long day of travel.
15. Use a sleep mask or earplugs to help you sleep better.
16. Take a break from technology and enjoy the scenery around you.
17. Take a nap if you need to catch up on sleep.
18. Practice good hygiene by washing your hands regularly and carrying hand sanitizer.
19. Take a morning hot girl walk to get coffee, or plan a hike to explore your destination.
20. Treat yourself to a massage or spa treatment.
21. Visit a local farmer’s market or grocery store to buy fresh and healthy food.
22. Stay connected with loved ones back home through video chat or social media.
23. Learn about the culture and history of your destination.
24. Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare local cuisine.
25. Use a travel pillow to make sleeping in unfamiliar beds more comfortable.
26. Pack a small first aid kit with essential items like bandaids and pain relievers.
27. Carry a small bag with you for day trips or excursions.
28. Take a break from alcohol or limit your intake.
29. Keep a positive attitude and remain flexible if things don’t go as planned.
30. Take a break from social media and enjoy the present moment.
31. Use aromatherapy to help you relax or sleep better.
32. Bring a reusable tote bag for shopping or carrying items.
33. Take a break from work and truly be OOO while you’re on vacation.
34. Get plenty of rest before and after your travels.
35. Keep a travel journal to document your experiences, or write it out on your Notes app.
36. Treat yourself to a special souvenir or gift. Bonus points if you collect something from all your destinations.
37. Take a dip in the pool or ocean to cool off.
38. Use a travel-friendly skincare routine to keep your skin looking healthy.
39. Practice gratitude and appreciate the opportunity to travel.
40. Take a day off from being on the go with sightseeing and relax by the pool or beach.
41. If you have it, take advantage of hotel amenities like fitness centers and spas.
42. Enjoy the journey and have fun!

Up next: Sometimes it’s not possible to totally log off while you’re traveling, so here’s a blog with workcation tips if you’re running a biz while traveling!

What will you takeaway from this self-care list for your next vacation?

Ever since we created our podcast, Playground To Purpose, my childhood bestie and I have been on a quest to add more play to our lifestyle. And the holiday season is the perfect time to add some spirited play to your life.

Use this list as inspiration to have some holiday play this season!

Be sure to save this on Pinterest if you find this post inspiring!

1. Find the best holiday drink in your city

Most of us love a good Starbucks holiday drink, but your local coffee shop also has holiday specials! Find one with the most fun flavors. Or, if you’re not a coffee or beverage kind of person, try to find the best holiday dessert!

2. Create a themed cocktail

Speaking of drinks, why not create a fun and festive cocktail? You could even take it to the next level. I’ve seen some fun drink recipe ideas on TikTok. Or, if you don’t drink, make it a mocktail!

3. Go to a candle shop to smell all the festive scents

Bring on all the firewood, gingerbread & mulled wine candles.

4. Host a themed party

There are so many themes you could do! I’ve seen a trend of parties where you bring holiday drinks. You can also do a classic “ugly sweater party” or have everyone wear funky Christmas socks.

5. Do a themed gift exchange

You could do a silly theme like, only give gifts that start with the letter E. Or, only green gifts under $20. Giving people fun guidelines to work with allows people to get more creative, and feel like they’re on a bit of a scavenger hunt.

6. Ring the bell for The Salvation Army

Ringing the bell for The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign is super fun to do with your besties, while actually doing some good! Your group can help raise money to help homelessness, poverty, and help fund a ton of programs that do good. If you can’t physically go, you could also virtually be a bell ringer too!

7. Read winter-themed books

You could go for one of these romance holiday books, which I feel like is the new holiday movie.

8. Do a ‘Santa Claws’ party

Playground To Purpose co-host Nina is doing a virtual gift exchange of claw clips for the holiday season. Such a clever idea to give gifts you’ll actually use!

9. Find fun holiday socks

Target always has good holiday socks! Etsy is also a great option for cozy socks.

10. Buy an advent calendar

They have one for everything these days! Whether it’s socks or makeup, you can find one that isn’t just chocolates! Or, you could even gift someone with a fun surprise advent calendar! Who wouldn’t love to open a new surprise treat every day?

11. Create a signature dish

Nothing says adulting like having your own signature dish you bring to parties! I’m still working on mine, but I feel like this feels like a fun project this year.

12. Wrap up the year with a party to celebrate your friends

Success showers are the cutest way to celebrate your besties who did big things this year!

13. Watch & keep track of your holiday movies

My spreadsheet tracker includes what my family and I rated the movie, where we can watch it, and keeps track of movies we want to watch this year!

14. Donate to a toy drive

I also love the “angel tree” donations where you can give someone something on their Christmas list. You can find those at a lot of Starbucks locations.

15. Find an ornament to represent your year

This is such a cute annual gift to give people in your life too, so they can always look forward to their ornament they get from you!

16. Get a holiday-themed mani/pedi

You can go for a typical red, green or blue for winter vibes, or go for some fun mani art!

17. Personalize your gift wrapping

Get some brown paper, or reuse paper bags, and get holiday stamps to make some cute DIY gift wrapping!

18. Bake a holiday treat inspired by your favorite movie

This article from The Food Network has a fun list to choose from!

19. Listen to holiday music in a new genre

There are holiday mixes for any genre, like R&B. And this country holiday playlist is a vibe.

20. Play a holiday game

Here’s a list of hilarious holiday games you can play from Play Party Plan.

21. Tipsy holiday caroling

Or skip the tipsy part, but holiday caroling is definitely a playful activity to try this year!

22. Go ice skating

Or skiing! Any kind of outdoor winter activity to get you through the cold weather is a must!

23. Decorate your work desk

Make sure your workspace still allows for holiday productivity and isn’t too distracting, but have fun with making your office space a little more festive!

24. Do a Christmas lights scavenger hunt

I made a new family tradition last year to do a little Christmas lights scavenger hunt from lists I find on Pinterest. It’s a fun way to make driving around the neighborhoods to check out lights even more fun!

25. Create a winter life theme

Having a quarterly theme is my new personality trait. This year, I chose to do “cozy while crushing it” which basically means adding extra comfort to my life while still making things happen. Examples of this: doing pilates in my pajamas, wearing all the cute matching sets & extra comfy clothes while ending the year with a bang. Swipe below for my co-host’s theme!

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Sometimes you’re looking to learn something new with a podcast, and other times you just want to laugh and unplug for a bit. These podcasts are lighthearted, will make you giggle, and give you a boost of dopamine – so you feel a little lighter going into the day.

8 Playful podcasts for adding more fun to your life

1. Playground To Purpose

Join childhood best friends, Coley Bouschet (Life Goals Collective Founder) & Nina Soon as they explore the connections between childhood whimsies and adult career paths. Each week, they find new ways to add more play to your purpose. There are solo episodes and episodes with guests who have fascinating and fun careers and pastimes.

Listen on Spotify. Listen on Apple.

2. Bone Marry Bury

It’s like a hot mess TV show rolled into a podcast. Follow along as we discover who Allie hooks up with, who she marries, and who she kills all in the span of a month. In this reverse whodunnit, cringe at Allie’s life decisions as Gabe, Allie’s best friend, narrates the whole thing. If Euphoria had a sense of humor… you’d get Bone Marry Bury, maybe. Play detective and listen for some good ol’ raunchy fun!

Listen on Spotify. Listen on Apple.

3. Unlocking the Magic

If you’re planning a playcation to Disney World, listen to Bruce & Connie give relatable tips on how to truly experience the magic of the parks. The hosts share amusing anecdotes from their own family trips, all the while “unlocking” the magic behind all your fave Disney attractions!

Listen on Spotify. Listen on Apple.

4. The Fearless Chase

Madison Anaya is the BFF we all need. Her podcast feels like you’re hanging out at a sleepover party where everyone wants to live intentionally. She covers friendship, mental health, dating (though she’s been with her husband since middle school!), and self-love.

Listen to our founder, Coley’s episode on Fearless Chase, where they talk hobbies, enneagram, and being an adult.

Listen on Spotify. Listen on Apple.

5. SmartLess

If you love Armchair Expert, but want another podcast that’s a bit more lighthearted – Smartless is the podcast for you. The hosts are Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett, so you already know it’s going to be funny. The premise is that one of the hosts chooses the guest for that week and surprises the rest of them. It’s a fun podcast, and even the ads will leave you belly laughing.

Listen on Spotify. Listen on Apple.

6. Couples Therapy

Couples Therapy is hosted by a comedian couple, Naomi Ekperigin and Andy Beckerman. They “gab with their favorite actors and comics about their romantic pasts, presents and futures.” It’s a hilarious relationship podcast with heartfelt responses to listener questions.

Listen on Spotify. Listen on Apple.

7. Anna Faris is Unqualified

Anna Faris is such a gem, and this podcast is so quirky with the best celebrity guests that are rarely interviewed, like Dylan O’Brien. Her questions and games are so playful, like asking celebs about their deal-breakers. They also take callers in each episode and she and the guest give them “unqualified” advice.

Listen on Spotify. Listen on Apple.

8. Girls Gotta Eat

I don’t know why I resisted this podcast for so long, but it’s such a fun dating and comedy podcast. Hosted by Ashley Hesseltine and Rayna Greenberg, this podcast features episodes from a variety of guests – from reality stars to matchmakers to Elizabeth Warren. And then you get your cheeky sex and dating content. I love how relatable this podcast is, even though the hosts are super outgoing, they’re inclusive and give truly helpful tips.

Listen on Spotify. Listen on Apple.

What playful podcasts would you add to this list?

Up next: Best Hot Girl Walk Podcasts

There’s always a time in a relationship when you want to spice things up a little bit and make things more carefree and spontaneous again. These creative ideas will help you liven up your relationship, make dating feel whimsy and fun again, and maybe give your relationship a little romantic boost.

Also, feel free to send this to your person, to give them a little hint-hint on what would make for some fun dates!

Here are 26 creative and fun couple activities to try out

1. Alphabet dates

In a date night rut? Try getting creative and plan date nights from A-Z, starting with the letter A. For example, an A date could be Apple Picking. And a Z date could be going to the Zoo. Take turns picking the date each weekend. This was inspired by Abby Benson on TikTok.

2. Meal prep play dates 

Turn an adulting task into fun. Try out new recipes together, all the while making grocery shopping and cooking for the week a special event. Add themes to each week or listen to music for even more fun!

3. Build a fort

Make movie night a little more special by getting all those blankets together and building a cozy little fort.

4. Make up your own game

Whether it’s a drinking game or just a fun game at the house, it’s a blast to make up your own rules for a game. You can make it silly or romantic, but it’s fun to have a game that you’ve created together.

Build-in some consequences or prizes to take it up a notch. 

5. Practice couple yoga poses

Watch YouTube videos and try out some couple poses, and stretch yourself – literally.

6. Go on a “couples retreat”

Inspired by Evie McLeod in this “Dream Retreat” Instagram post, be intentional with your relationship with an annual Couples Retreat – just you and your bae to talk about the goals you have in your relationship and spend quality time together.

You could go camping, go on a staycation at a local hotel, or head to a cozy cabin. The point is to spend intentional time talking and dreaming together. 

7. Try a class together

Whether it’s a pottery class, a cooking class, or an archery lesson, do something that challenges the both of you and gets you out of your comfort zone and learn something new.

Here’s a list of play activities you could try together too.

8. Start a TikTok

Couple TikTok accounts are adorable with the fun pranks, and lighthearted trends. This TikTok couple is one of my favorites for wholesome, cute relationship content.

9. Go to a bookstore and choose a book for each other

Don’t be a jerk with this, and genuinely try to choose a book that you think your partner might enjoy. Then, spend the afternoon reading them! You could make rules for the genre or style of book, if you want to! 

10. Play subjective Guess Who

Another idea inspired by a TikTok. This couple was playing Guess Who, but subjectively based on what these characters seem like. For example, “Would your character mansplain something to me?” Or, “Was your character a theater kid?”

11. Cook your way through a cookbook together

Make one of your meals together each week based on a cookbook. Find one that matches the way you’re trying to eat – whether that’s vegan, simple dinner dishes, etc.

12. Go camping in your backyard

If you have a backyard, plan a night where you’ll do a little outdoor camping! I loved this video from Eamon and Bec where they wildly decided to move their mattress outside during winter to camp outside to change things up!

While you’re at it, make sure to do a little stargazing!

13. Plan a surprise date

Sometimes we can get into a rut with dating, especially when we live with our partners. Tell your partner you’ve planned a surprise date night, and what to wear. And then, plan the rest for a spontaneous, romantic day or night.

Leave cute notes before the date, and even if you live together, arrive at the door, like you’re picking them up for the date.

14. Go to a drive-in movie

Create a cozy setup in one of your cars and head to an old-school drive-in movie theater. 

15. Plan a scavenger hunt

It doesn’t have to be extravagant and maybe save this for a birthday or anniversary, but who doesn’t love a good mission? Plus, it’s so romantic for someone to spend the time planning all the little details in order to surprise you!

16. Go on a picnic

You can do a picnic at a park, or even in the back of your car with a cozy blanket. Be sure to bring some fun food like sandwiches and drinks to make it fun!

17. Take photos together

Whether it’s getting professional photos taken, or using the self-timer, it can be so fun to do a little photoshoot. You don’t have to be getting engaged or married in order to have pictures taken!

18. Choose from a jar of date ideas

If you want a different option than the ABC dates, try putting a bunch of date ideas on individual slips of paper into a jar and pick one at random when you need an idea for date night! Do whatever you choose!

Allow each of you one “veto” option for the ones you’re not quite in the mood for. You could also color coordinate the papers with “free activities” is yellow, “affordable activities” in blue, “bougie activities” in red, etc.

19. Do an art project

Maybe it’s a tie-dye project or painting something together, doing a project where you’re on the same team can feel so good!

20. Get a Slip ‘N Slide

Or some kind of fun play activity that you used to do as a kid. Why not add a little childish fun to your relationship?

21. Get out old photo albums

Speaking of, head down memory lane and get out some old photo albums from childhood. Or, if you’re feeling daring, get out those old yearbooks! It’s such a fun couple activity to get to know your partner in a new way!

22. Get matching piercings

We’re not so into matching tattoos (no judgement), but matching piercings? We could get into that.

23. Pick out an outfit for each other for date night

Go to Target or some clothing store and pick out outfits for each other to wear on date night. This is a fun activity in seeing what your partner thinks of your style, and what they’d ideally want you to wear. Or, be super goofy about it, and make each other wear an embarrassing outfit for a night out. Either way, it’s fun!

24. Go on a long drive

Make a fun playlist for the drive, play road games, grab some good snacks, and make it a fun time to catch up.

25. Head to an arcade

Play some fun games at a local arcade! Again, let that inner child out together!

26. Do a bake off

Compete with each other and bake the same thing. Bonus points if you can have friends judge the competition!

Have you tried any of these fun couple activities? Which one are you going to add to your date nights?

• Read this next: Questions To Ask Your Partner (When You Know Just About Everything)

On Playground to Purpose, we talked to Enneagram Coach, Steph Barron Hall, all about her childhood as it relates to her career passion for helping people use the Enneagram to learn about themselves.

Listen to the episode here:

︎ Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

Steph says, “Enneagram is a motivation-based personality system oriented around nine core types.

I use the word personality. It’s really a lot more than that. It’s deeper than that. It’s really about your blind spots and understanding that in more depth and, and clarity, so that you can actually grow. I think that’s the most important thing about it. And so what I do with that is I take this big complex system and try to make it really clear and simple for people without losing all of the nuances.”

If you haven’t taken the enneagram test, you can take it on Truity.*

I’m not even close to the enneagram expert level that Steph is, but I had some fun with what I’ve learned about it through books and Steph’s course, Enneagram IRL, to break down some play ideas for each of the enneagram types.

It’s a fun addition to the episode, which we hope you’ll have fun listening to along with learning your enneagram play style.

First, why does every enneagram type need more play in their lives?

Play isn’t just for kids! It benefits us in adulthood in numerous ways, through our relationships, our work, and in our overall happiness.

It allows us to be more present, have more fun, and to allow ourselves to reconnect with our inner child. A lot of us have ignored the kid inside of us, who grew up way too fast.

How each of the enneagram personality types can play more:

Ones: The Reformers

Enneagram ones can be a tad more serious and perfectionistic, so it’s helpful to get out of your head and find an activity that allows you to get out of the perfection mode.

Play a board game, or do a cooking class with clear guidelines.

And if you feel like you’re needing to get OUT of your comfort zone, try stretching yourself and leaning into the fear of imperfection.

One way you could do this is through an improv class. Improv still has rules to it but allows you to expand your horizons. Or, maybe it’s time for a night out to let loose with a little karaoke.

Twos: The Helpers

While enneagram twos are often helping everyone around them, it’s important to take time to nurture yourself too. If you can do both at the same time, even better.

Try baking cookies, decorating your space to feel more inviting, or creating a bullet journal to explore your creative side. Scrapbooking might also be a fun option, for you to create something with your hands from the fun memories with your favorite people.

Threes: The Achievers

Enneagram 3s are probably the type to win the award for “most likely to turn almost any activity into a side hustle” – and one of the most likely types to struggle with play.

Steph jokingly said her first reaction toward us talking about play was something like, “What’s play? I don’t even know what that is.”  

Resist the urge to monetize everything, and try to make time for an activity that doesn’t become a job – at least, not right away. In the episode with Steph, she said she bought a guitar – something that she knew she wouldn’t be good at and could do just as an outlet.

Other ideas? Make a TikTok account just for fun, change up your style, try out a painting or ceramics class, or buy some supplies to start some hand lettering.

And if your play does turn into a little side hustle, we won’t judge!

Fours: The Individualists

As creatives, fours are already often engaging in creative hobbies or random things that interest them. But often the creative mind can be non-stop and even feel a bit draining, so if you’re a 4, try some play activities that allow you to get in the zone and stay present.

Try an activity where you’re using your hands, like making candles or soaps.

Or, because 4s can be prone to sadness, it might also be good to explore some outdoor activities, especially when the sun is shining! Play some frisbee at the beach, play a game of tennis, invent a new game with friends, or plan a hike!

Also, as a 4 myself, I love heading to plant shop and picking up a new plant for my home, or just exploring new places, like vintage shops, around town.

Fives: The Investigators

Fives love a little intellectual stimulation, so try some problem-solving types of games.

Head to one of those bars that have board games and invite some friends along. Or head to an escape room, if you have the capacity for social play.

If you’re feeling drained, try doing some art – maybe some sketching. Or lean into your curiosity and watch a new documentary or read a book about a topic you’ve never dug into.

Maybe have a little fun with creating your own stories, based on what you’ve been learning.

Sixes: The Loyalists

For enneagram sixes, our reliable and anxious-prone types, you might find yourself craving a calming activity for your play.

Grab an adult coloring book, read a good book, listen to your favorite murder mystery podcast, or start a puzzle. Maybe add a little more fun to it by doing something outside your normal routine.

Pick up a new candle scent, or head to the bookshop and try out a new book genre.

Sevens: The Enthuisiasts

Sevens are no stranger to finding play in every day life, so if you’re a different type, find a seven and you’ll be sure to add more play into your life pretty instantly. ;) But even sevens can find themselves in a play rut!

Grab some friends and go to karaoke, throw a dance party, plan some wholesome pranks, or rollerblade around town for a little extra social play.

Or maybe jump in the car or bike, jam out to a fun playlist, write a song, or pick somewhere on a map and go there on a whim.

Eights: The Challengers

Because eights love a good debate, try attending a trivia night or get a little competition going with a game night.

Or if you’re at home, choose a cookbook and spontaneously pick a recipe to try out. Try some creative activities that aren’t repetitive like picking up an instrument or getting into a sports league in your city.

Nines: The Peacemakers

As peacemakers, nines love to spend time relaxing – and are the type most likely to already be playing in the lowkey sense. Pick up a guitar or new instrument, start a puzzle, read a fiction book, or play The Sims.

If you have a puppy or animal around, play with them a little longer than normal.

On the topic of 9s, interestingly enough, I read this in a Washington Post article about Play:

“In other words, for our earliest ancestors, play wasn’t just about adding fun to their lives, it may have been a way of keeping the peace, which was critical for survival.” 

Keeping the peace, for their own feeling of calmness, is what nines are all about – and I feel that they may prioritize play in a way of keeping peace more than any other type.

What type are you? What’s your favorite way to play?

(*We’re Truity affiliates, so we’ll receive a small percentage if you decide to buy something from them, at no cost to you.)

But first, let’s break down an important distinction.

Play vs Hobbies: What is play?

We define play as doing something you enjoy with no real purpose or agenda in mind. There doesn’t have to be a point to your activity, nor do you need to adopt it as a full blown hobby that you try to improve on. You don’t need to be good at play — enjoy yourself and soak in the moment, no matter which activity you decide to try!

Have you listened to our Playground to Purpose podcast, all about adding more whimsy to your purpose?

We chat with play experts, talk to people in all kinds of careers about the connection between their childhood & adult career paths, and have solo chats about our personal play journey.

︎ Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Stitcher

Fun adult play activity ideas to try out:

1. Color with adult coloring books

Or kids coloring books, because who cares! Grab a new set of crayons, colored pencils, or markers while you’re at it. And don’t forget — it’s okay if you color outside the lines, just have fun with it!

2. Get a journal for bullet journaling

To add some more fun into your journaling practice, use some washi tape, colored pens, and fun stickers. Or, create a book bujo like this gal from TikTok.

3. Write snail mail

Who says we can’t still be pen pals? Snail mail is so fun. If you’re looking for a pen pal, you can sign up for one here.

4. Try hand lettering

Hand lettering is a visual art that focuses on drawing and illustrating beautiful letters. Even if your handwriting isn’t *perfect* give hand lettering a shot! There are so many ways to customize your letters to your preferences.

5. Paint

Raise your hand if you ever did a Paint by Numbers when you were a kid. Same here! Whether you’re looking for a more structured paint session, or want to grab a few paint colors and get messy, painting is for everyone.

6.  Read fiction

Not books for school or work, but just for fun. What are you curious about? I love fantasy romance fiction books, personally. New reading genres get you out of your comfort zone, so head to a book store and pick out something on a whim.

7. Fun outdoor games

Outdoor games, like giant Jenga or cornhole, are a great way to sneak in some play and some movement too. Get out there and put your competition face on!

8. Do outdoor sports activities 

Put on your tennis shoes and step outside for some tennis, volleyball, soccer, or football. Outdoor sports activities enable you to play with others and soak up some Vitamin D if you’re lucky too!

9. Play arcade-style games

Calling all Pac-Man and Super Mario lovers, this one is for you! Indulge in some arcade-style games, either ones you enjoyed as a kid or explore newly released ones.

10. Learn a language

Duolingo and other fun learning platforms make it easier than ever to finally learn that new language you told yourself you always wanted to speak.

11. Bake something

Cookies, pastries, brownies — oh my! Bake your favorite treat or grab a new recipe you haven’t gotten around to making yet for an extra challenge.

12. Create a TikTok

Create a TikTok, not for the sake of making money from it, but purely for the fun of it. Have a passion for fiction books? Join the BookTok community on TikTok. Have a passion for cooking? Cleaning? Traveling? Vegan food? There’s literally no niche too small for TikTok.

Follow us at @playgroundtopurpose as we document our play journey.

13. Find the best food/drinks in your city

Familiarize yourself with your local surroundings by exploring your city. Try new restaurants and bars to find the best food and drinks nearby.

14. Play computer games

If you spent hours playing games on the computer as a kid, don’t worry, we did too. Choose your game of choice and indulge in some childhood nostalgia.

15. Get a jigsaw puzzle

Jigsaw puzzles are fun and low-key tools for playing at home! You can enjoy a TV show while you solve the puzzle, too, if you’d like.

16. Create a play box and pick a random activity to play

Kids aren’t the only ones who should have boxes full of toys and activities to play with. Create a play box and add your favorite activities to it. Fidget spinners, brainteasers, and coloring books are a great place to start if you need ideas.

17. Take a pottery class

Pottery classes are a blast. Sign up for one by yourself or with a friend and create a handmade item you never thought you’d be able to make on your own.

18. Travel on a whim

Pick a destination, book your flights or hop in the car, and get going! Wanderlust is real.

19. Collect things

Collecting things is a childlike practice that can invoke feelings of nostalgia and excitement. In fact, collections allow people to relive their childhood, so pick up your baseball card collection right where you left off.

20. Photography

Whether it’s Polaroids or film cameras, there’s nothing quite like capturing moments and being able to relive them later down the road.

21. Read tarot

Tarot readings are a fun way to explore your spiritual side. Grab a Tarot deck, so you can give your friends fun readings – or pull a card to give you an intention for the week.

22. Rollerskate or skateboard

Remember those late nights at Skate City? Were you more of the skatepark type as a kid? Grab your wheels and get moving.

23. Do embroidery

Embroidery is the craft of decorating fabric by threading yarn directly onto it. You can create all sorts of designs with embroidery.

24. Learn magic tricks

Magic shows aren’t just for kids! You can learn magic tricks and impress your friends and family in no time. Here’s a magic set to help you get started.

25. Plan self-care nights, but make it themed

Face masks, bath bombs, Netflix, candles, and essential oils are the go-to items we love for self-care nights. Plan a themed self-care night, like a romantic one where you take a candlelit bath while watching a rom-com. You deserve all the love in the world!

26. Dopamine Dressing

Have you heard of dopamine dressing? It’s simple. Dopamine dressing is all about wearing clothes that make you happy and bring you joy. Play with your wardrobe for a dopamine boost today!

27. Garden

Create your own little succulent garden. Succulents are low maintenance and a great way to add some nature to your space. Here are some steps to help you get started with your garden.

28. Make candles

Candles can be expensive, so why not purchase the materials and make your own? Bonus points if you break out your markers and crayons and create your own candle labels.

29. Get a hula hoop

Hula hoops have been around since 500 BC, which clearly means they’re so much fun that they’ll stand the test of time! Challenge your friends to a hula hooping contest just like old times.

30. Play Wordle or any fun word games

Is Wordle a trend or is it here to stay? Only time will tell. Whether it’s Wordle or something else, word games are the perfect way to sneak in some playtime and brain puzzles.

31. Take entertaining friends to the next level

Do something out of the ordinary for your friend group. Need some ideas? Plan an at-home murder mystery event, host Friendsgiving in the middle of the summer, or hold a DIY pizza night.

32. Sign up for stand up comedy or improv

Push yourself outside of your comfort zone by signing up for a stand-up comedy or improv night.

33. Hike new routes

Mix it up! Explore the outdoors and hike a new route you haven’t explored before. Bonus points if it’s in an area you’re unfamiliar with and outside of your comfort zone.

Speaking of new routes, there’s almost always more than one way to reach your destination, so try a new walking route. Or walk somewhere with no end goal in mind and see where your paths and turns take you.

34. Visualize

Instead of meditating, spend time listening to your favorite music and visualize your future. What would your dream closet look like? What would you do if you had a million dollars to spend? Have fun with your imagination.

35. Join a creative community

I love being a part of the Magnetic Makers* to be around like-minded creatives. It’s a community membership for creatives. It’s a “monthly gathering designed to help you feel inspired, motivated and excited to grow your small business.”

It also includes entrepreneur and play workshops on topics like up-leveling your email signature, growing your Pinterest, and increasing your art sales! 

36. Learn how to make latte art

We’re obsessed with latte art. Learn how to do latte art at home and spice up your next morning coffee.

37. Play an instrument

Break out your ukulele, guitar, or piano and learn how to play it. Or sign up for lessons if you’re into that sort of thing.

38. Put on temporary tattoos

Remember how fun it was to receive temporary tattoos as a kid? Trust us, temporary tattoos are still just as fun as they used to be. Grab a sheet and cover your skin.

39. DIY / Fix up items in your home

A DIY home project allows you to put your home improvement skills to the test. Tackle an area of your home that you’ve always wanted to fix up.

40. Make jewelry

Making polymer clay earrings has gained popularity over the last few years. Clay jewelry is a nice way to blend your crafting skills with a fun outcome. Search YouTube for DIY tutorials to help you dive right in.

41. Recreate a makeup look

Have you ever seen a celebrity on TV or in the news and wanted to recreate their look? There’s no time like the present! Grab your makeup and inspiration pics and get started.

42. Find a random artist at random and listen to their entire album

We all have our favorite musical artists, playlists, and genres, but consider branching out and finding someone new to listen to. Ask your friends for recommendations.

43. Brainstorm an idea for a children’s picture book

Calling all Goodnight Moon and Charlotte’s Web lovers! You can create a children’s picture book too. Brainstorm an idea for a modern-day children’s picture book and draw out a page or two to see how your idea comes to life.

︎ Psst. Our favorite play items from Amazon.

44. Go to the store and pick out a new board game to try

There are aisles of board games to choose from these days! Head to your nearest store, close your eyes, and pick a new board game at random for a game night with you friends or family members.

45. Make a bookmark for yourself or to gift to others

If you’re a bookworm, there’s a good chance you need another bookmark. Snag some construction paper, markers, and stickers, and make your own!

46. Round up some friends to play flag football or red rover

Enjoy some time outside with friends and play a game that gets your bodies moving. Flag football is always a blast (just make sure anyone who tackles is kicked out!)

47. Find online trivia quizzes to test your knowledge on random topics

Or, just take a Buzzfeed-style quiz for funsies, like this aura quiz.

48. Play “tiger rabbit” 

Tiger rabbit is a game where you keep naming animals that end with the last letter of the previous animal. See how long you can go. Fun to do it by yourself or with others. It’s the perfect brainteaser when you’re stuck waiting in a long line.

49. Spruce up one of your rooms while sticking to a certain budget

Add new wallpaper, rearrange your furniture, or grab some new small accessories at Target to spruce up one of your rooms at home. Play with new colors, patterns, or setups that you usually wouldn’t choose.

50. Design your dream life on the Sims

This throwback game doesn’t miss.

Don’t forget to use the Motherlode cheat. Or, at least that used to be my favorite way to play.

51. Rent a bounce house

Bounce houses aren’t just for kids’ birthday parties or school events. If you have space for once, rent a bounce house for a few hours for you and your friends.

52. Plan a Playcation

Stay at a treehouse or plan a trip to Disney World. The whole intent? Play.

53. Visit all the Little Libraries in your town

You know, those small libraries of books people have outside their homes. Take a book, share a book. Use this map to find some Little Libraries in your area.

54. Solve a Rubik’s cube

The iconic Rubik’s cube was created in the mid-1970s. Solving one (or trying to) is a great way to sneak some play into your day in an easy way.

55. Go to the park

Play on the swing set, go down the slides, or bring your own yard games for the perfect park outing.

56. Sudoku

Are you up for the challenge? Sudoku puzzles will put your brain to the test!

57. Nail art

If painted nails are your jam, consider playing around with nail art designs. You can use nail polish paint or order stickers and stamps to use on your nails.

58. Dye your hair colorful

Raise your hand if you’ve always wanted a pink streak or two in your hair. Yeah, us too! Dye your hair or add colorful highlights for a twist on your usual do.

59. Create a charcuterie board

Charcuterie boards are all the rage (and for a good reason!) They’re delicious, easy to make, and perfect for sharing with others. Create a charcuterie board with your favorite snack options.

60. Get a creative thinking journal

Creative thinking exercises encourage you to change the way you think. These journals are filled with creative challenges to keep your mind busy for weeks.

61. Do some upcycling projects

Upcycling, or creative reuse, involves transforming waste or unwanted byproducts into art. You can do upcycling projects of your own and create things like this Upcycled Wine Bottle Heart Chime.

62. Make fun cocktails (or mocktails)

In the mood for a playful night in? Make at-home cocktails or mocktails and try a new drink you don’t usually order while you’re out.

63. Learn how to create a braid

Okay, let’s be honest, braiding isn’t as easy as it looks. There are many different varieties of braids you can learn using your hair or yarn.

64.  Try all the ice cream flavors at your favorite spot

Or all the cocktail options at your favorite bar. Think of it like that game we used to play as kids where you’d put all of the soda flavors in your cup, only better.

65. Design with Procreate

If you have an iPad Pro, first of all, I’m jealous of you. Second off, if you aren’t already using Procreate, buy it ASAP! Digital drawing is in.

66. Create a scrapbook

Gather your favorite photos, some stickers, and colored paper to create a scrapbook of all of your best-kept memories.

67. Create your custom scent

Make your own perfume with essential oils. Use this perfume oil guide to walk you through how to concoct your personal blend. Who doesn’t want to have their own unique, delicious smell? 

68. Order something random off the menu

Choose an appetizer or a dessert, if you wish. Or close your eyes and point at a random menu item to try (no backing out once you open your eyes!)

69. Join a Fantasy League

Whether it’s an NFL Fantasy League or Bachelor Fantasy League, playing fantasy sports with friends or strangers is a blast.

70. Pick a childhood toy to play with friends

Like Nerf Guns or Polly Pocket. Choose something nostalgic for an extra playful friend date.

Want more tips on how to add more play to your life? Tune into our podcast.

Love this play for adults list? Pin it for later!

*This post contains affiliate links, which means we’ll receive a percentage if you decide to purchase. We only recommend products and services we truly love! Thanks for your support in keeping Life Goals running!

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Play is more natural for some

Do you ever find it challenging to be playful? A playful mindset indeed comes easier for some than others. Between Coley and Nina, play comes more naturally for Nina, which she attributes to warming up to new situations quicker than Coley. Similarly, Coley feels that she spends a lot of time in her head in social cases where the environment is entirely new to her. And she finds herself feeling most playful when she’s in situations and around people she’s more familiar with.

Personality traits may also have something to do with it. Coley and Nina consider themselves introverts, and generally speaking, they associate extroversion with playfulness. (Read: How to be more playful as an introvert.) 

Defining play for yourself

The first step to prioritizing play is defining what it means to you. Nina considers playing as something that someone does for fun without a purpose. 

Coley sees play as doing something where you’re partially in the zone but having fun at the same time. 

But defining play is easier said than done! What one person considers playful and fun, others might not say the same. And sharing the activities you do enjoy for fun might feel challenging and awkward at times, especially when explaining or defending your interests.

And another component of play that Coley and Nina believe in is actively engaging in whatever activity you choose rather than using it as a mind-numbing escape. For example, there’s a fine line between having fun playing video games and using them to ignore your current reality. Crossing that line could lead to unhealthy habits.

The researched benefits of play

What does research have to say about playtime? Research suggests that play releases endorphins, increases brain functionality, and sparks creativity. It makes us feel energetic, improves our memory, and offers many other benefits.

The question is — would someone receive these same benefits if they were engaging in an activity to pass the time without intention, even if it’s an activity they enjoy or have fun doing?

Read this next: Add Playtime To Your Work Day

Scheduling a “recess”

One way to incorporate more intentional play into your life: add white space to your calendar and decide what to do with it when the time comes. Dr. Brené Brown talks about the concept of white space — space in your schedule where you have nothing to do — and choosing what you want to do in that space in the moment rather than pre-planning.

This concept can help alleviate feelings of forcing yourself to engage in activities you might not necessarily enjoy doing when the time comes.

Call it a recess, just like kids have at school if you’d like. Schedule recess time and dedicate it specifically to play and choose how you want to play down the road.

How imagination comes into play

For Nina, she’s striving to incorporate more play into her daily activities to find enjoyment in all aspects of how she’s spending her time. This is particularly helpful when she has to do something she doesn’t necessarily want to. She relies on her imagination, just like kids do, to spice up ordinary activities such as filing expense reports.

Another activity where imagination takes over? Reading and visualizing a book within your mind down to every last detail. You can engage your mind in creative ways, no matter what task you’re working on.

Coley prioritizes play to make mundane tasks more fun and set aside time to play regularly for enjoyment. She also plans to use play to be present and focus on the here and now.

Unintentionally inhibiting your desire to play

Have you ever felt drawn to a hobby or play activity, but feel like it’s too much of a commitment to get started?

Coley has felt drawn to painting lately but finds it hard to commit to buying paint and other supplies. Part of this is due, in part, to rotating through hobbies as a kid and asking for items, such as a guitar, that only got used once or twice. 

And as she’s grown older, she’s become more minimal and intentional with her purchases and items she owns, which makes it even more challenging to buy something without knowing if she will stick to it.

Nina recommended finding ways to pilot more expensive play activities, such as borrowing a friend’s paint setup before splurging on one for yourself. And perhaps more importantly — releasing judgments about your previous behaviors that block you from adding more play to your life today.

“I think that’s the whole point of play is just figuring out what feels fun for you in that moment.”

What stumbling blocks do you have when it comes to playing? What have you found helpful in getting you to play more?

If you’re already on BookTok (aka the bookish side of TikTok), you’ve probably gotten into A Court of Thorns and Roses* – and it might have caused you to add a ton of spicy, romantic fantasy books to your TBR pile since then.

If not, it’s time to come to the dark side, ladies.

Here are some of my favorite Book TikTokers who have amazing reading recommendations, reviews, and relatable videos for book lovers or those of you who want to get into reading again.

Whether you’re into fantasy, romance, thrillers, historical fiction, or non-fiction, there’s something for you on BookTok.

If you need some new reading recs, one of these gals below will have some fun recommendations. And if you want to take it to the next level with accountability and community, a lot of these ladies have book clubs too.

1. @larryreads

Larissa is a whole vibe. She makes a lot of relatable content on TikTok for readers who share a love of books and coffee.

In January, she read 18 books alone, which puts my reading to shame for sure, but most BookTok ladies do. Larissa’s personality is so magnetic and bubbly, and I love watching her videos.

She also has a Booktube channel where she goes into more detail with her reviews. And, she got to interview Colleen Hoover. Are you kidding? Absolute goals.

2. @bumblebeezus

Lizzy is one of my favorite BookTokers because her skits are genius. This video with different book genres fighting was SO good. Pretty much everyone I know who is in BookTok land with me also loves @bumblebeezus – so she’s a great place to start for all your recs.

She has lots of recommendations across all genres, so she’ll have recommendations based on whatever you’re in the mood for reading.

3. @lauryns_library

I first discovered BookTok through stumbling across one of Lauryn’s storytime videos on my For You Page. Lauryn is so adorable, and I love her TikTok videos because she has very similar taste in books to me. Her videos are super cute and relatable – and if you love feel-good books, she’s got you covered. 

She also has great book recommendations for romance and has a series on book trope recommendations – so you can find the perfect book for you if you’re into enemies to lovers vs fake dating.

4. @books.with.lee

I love Books with Lee, because a lot of BookTok content out there are recommendations from white authors. Lee gives recommendations of diverse authors and books with diverse characters. She has videos with strong, Black female leads in adult fiction. Here are her recommendations for some of her favorite Black authors.

5. @brisbooks

Briana is a girl in the CoHort aka the Colleen Hoover fan club. We stan CoHo books over here, so I trust her recommendations for romance-related books.

6. @alltheradreads

I’m obsessed with Rachel’s Book Bullet Journal. She has a lot of videos on how she made her book bujo and what’s inside of it. I think this is such a fun hobby idea – and a cool, artsy way to keep track of the books you read throughout the year. She actually prints out the book covers and everything! 

Plus, she does other book videos with recommendations and mini book reviews too!

Read this next: Bookish Habits for Reading More Intentionally This Year

7. @themorgankennedy

Morgan shares books that will make you fall back in love with reading. If you’ve been in a reading rut and you need a solid recommendation to get you back into reading, start with one of her videos for this. In this video, she says “one of my favorite things is when someone tells me they don’t like to read” because she knows exactly which ones will get them into it.

8. @thebooksiveloved

Pauline has great storytime videos for books that make you believe that she went through the situation herself, while describing the plot of a book. They’re super fun. Plus, Pauline posts a lot of BookTok videos throughout the day – so if you want lots of reading recs and good vibes, she’s your girl.

9. @aymansbooks

Ayman is known for her “shut up and read this book” videos. She’s funny, unexpectedly vulgar, and relatable. I don’t even know what else to say, just shut up and go watch her videos.

10. @pjandbooks

Payten is all about romance, spice, and diversity recommendations. I love her feminine, pink aesthetic. It’s such a vibe. No, Payten is a whole vibe. She has a series with “Chaotic Notes” where she writes in her thoughts of the books she reads in her notes app, and it’s amazing.

11. @darkfaerietales

Bridget came recommended to me by a friend and has you covered with the best faerie tale recommendations. Her bookshelf is the dreamiest dark faerie tale vibe – and I just want to read all her recommendations and steal a book from her gorgeous shelves with books, crowns, and candles. Dreamy!

Read next: How To Read More Books in 2022

Do you have any BookTok recs? Share them with us @lifegoalsmag.

*This is an Amazon affiliate link, which means if you decide to purchase the book, we’ll receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

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Tried and true methods for adding more play into work

A quick (or perhaps more bold way) to add more play into your work is to find a more playful job. 

“Step 1: Quit your job if it doesn’t allow for play.” 

But we get it; quitting your job may not be an option or even your desire. The good news is—if you feel like you’re in an environment that doesn’t cater to play, there are plenty of small ways you can get started, regardless of your current environment. 

Play via creative projects 

One way to add more play to your workday is through creative projects. Nina works on a newsletter that allows her to write, compile pictures, and include quotes from her team. This creative outlet has proven to be a playful way to enjoy the workday for Nina. 

Play via setting up team games

Another quick way to include play in your work is to run team games, such as jeopardy or trivia. Nina runs jeopardy with her sales team and enjoys seeing competitiveness amongst team members. The game is a great way to challenge employees, and it allows Nina to challenge herself as she builds the structure for and brainstorms what questions to use. 

Team games don’t necessarily have to happen at work to be fun, either. Things like planned trivia nights with your team members make for great team get-togethers and provide an opportunity for employees to connect on a fun level outside of the work environment. 

Play via organization and aesthetics

If you have more control over your work systems and structures, play through organization is one unique aspect you might not have previously considered. Coley is a big fan of ClickUp. If you’re unfamiliar with ClickUp, it’s a digital organization app with many customization capabilities. In particular, Coley plays with ClickUp by swapping out brand colors and designing a view that feels inspiring and feminine to her.

Other ways you can play with organization and aesthetics include changing your desktop backgrounds, changing your physical workspace environment, and spicing up your desk. Whatever aesthetic you enjoy, consider adding custom elements to your digital and physical workspace. 

Play via emojis and memes

Speaking of aesthetics, consider adding more emojis (where appropriate, of course) to your work. Nina uses emojis with her team to add a playful tone to her messages and because they break up text and make it more visually appealing. 

Remember that emojis might not be a fit for everyone, so be mindful of your receiving audience and the emojis you’re using.

Or take it to next level with fun memes!

Play via conversation  

Conversations with your coworkers, clients, and customers can be playful too! Whether you’re cracking jokes with customers or engaging in dialogue that makes your audience laugh and feels more relaxed, playfulness in conversation is a must. 

Use icebreakers, emulate youthful energy, or keep conversation light with a friendly smile to make your interactions more enjoyable and playful. Conversation topics that take away play often include work gossip and other negative discussion topics, so try to redirect the conversation when possible if these topics start to arise.

Play via breaks

If incorporating play directly into your work or workspace isn’t an option for you, don’t worry! We have some ideas for integrating work into your breaks for a quick dose of play. You could keep a small box of trinkets or toys at your desk or store a mini coloring book and a box of crayons in your drawers. These are great ways to dive into a brief playtime that you can quickly pack up and put away when your break is over.

Listening to energizing songs and playlists can also give you a quick boost on your breaks in between your work. There are so many ways to experiment with play throughout your day, even if it’s only for brief moments at a time.

Play via toys and competition 

We’ve all heard of trendy startups with ping-pong tables in the breakroom, haven’t we? Things like foosball, ping-pong and other multi-player games bring together in corporate office spaces and are the perfect way to add more play to the space.

And even if your office doesn’t have any of these types of games ready and available, you could rally a group of coworkers and head outside for some playtime. Keep a frisbee or football on hand, or play tag, even if it seems ludicrous at first. There’s no reason to feel embarrassed or think these ideas are outrageous.

“The alternative is a boring job where you just clock in, clock out, and there’s no joy. Why not have joy at work as well?”

Can you play in the virtual workplace?

Incorporating play in-person might sound more straightforward than it is in the virtual workspace, but rest assured, there are plenty of opportunities for you to liven up your virtual workday too. We get it—virtual workers are inundated with Zoom meetings these days, but things like playing jeopardy, doing virtual scavenger hunts, and playing other virtual games are a great way to pull in your team.

You can also do fun virtual presentations where you share quirky details about what you love outside of work, baby pictures, or other unique ways for team members to get to know one another. These activities allow you to get to know your people on a deeper level so that your job is much more than a clock in and clock out scenario.

Work play tips in action

We asked our community for examples of how they’ve incorporated play into their work, and here’s what they had to say:

• Alan plays solitaire on his work computer in his spare time and not to waste time, but rather for fun and to energize him 
• Jr rallies his coworkers together to play board games 
• Alyssa started a weekly outing with her coworkers to walk to a nearby lemonade shop for midday fun 

Shifting our mindset toward more play in the office

Work is an integral part of our lives; there’s no doubt about that. But it doesn’t have to be all work and no play. An all-work mentality isn’t sustainable in the long term, and we need to move toward an integration of work and play. 

How will you start incorporating more play into your work?