I live in a small town in Southwest Louisiana. We have a few businesses in town, but all can be summed up as locally owned retail, the DG, and a meat market. The closest movie theater is 30 minutes away. The other “fun” activities are about an hour away. So if you are someone on a budget, without transportation, or just don’t prefer to drive far it leaves you with few typical options for “getting out of the house”. Therefore, creativity and motivation are required to have hobbies and activities to occupy free time in a small town. I personally enjoy the slow pace and peace a small town brings. I must admit, at times it’s a challenge to get out there and fill in that time. You can’t just walk to the local coffee shop. You have to intentionally plan outings or have hobbies.
Ok, enough intro. I find myself drawn to these activities because I’m a creative person and I like to move.
1. Games
From pizza & arcades to family game nights…. that’s real fun for me. I love the games but I love the interaction between myself and others even more. The kid’s hysterical laughter, competition, and forgetting tomorrow’s worries is what I like.
2. Paint
Confession, I’m not that great. I’m a work in progress. There’s just something very relaxing about blending colors and building something. Initially, I could only paint what someone else showed me. Eventually, I got brave enough to buy my own supplies and paint what I felt. Now I find myself watching Bob Ross with amazement rather than boredom. It’s been a journey. Comment below if your’re self-taught and have tips.
3. Shop
Like most people, I am on a budget. However, I thorougly enjoy thrift shopping and sale shopping. I’ve become quite good at it if I may say so myself. It’s a money saver and a great way to mix up your wardrobe. You never know where you might come across a nice cardigan or high-quality handbag. I’ve recently discovered the WhatNot app…. if there are othes like this please share your favorites.
4. DIYs
I did mention I love creative activities. Flower arrangements, centerpieces, Sunday school crafts, christmas ornaments,….. I love it all.
5. Live Music
I am an ambivert, meaning I have both extrovert and introvert features. I enjoy hobbies that are quiet and energizing, but I do like to get out of the house and socialize sometimes. It’s about an hour drive either way, but I love to go to places where there will be live music. I usually go with a few girl friends and we have a great time.
For now, I think my list is ok. However…. I would like it to change. I’ve been looking at and bookmarking local events and festivals. I want to add TRAVEL to the top 5 things I do for fun. Also, getting fit has been a focus for me the past few years. Now that I feel stronger and more confident in my body, I want to continue to challenge myself. I’d like to see jogging or hiking make it to my list of activities for fun.
I’d like to leave a reminder that healthy leisure activities plays a large role in mental health. So while “fun” may be a simple word, the role that joy and (healthy) pleasure plays in our life is significant. A common symptom of depression is loss of interest in hobbies, activities, and socializing. Be mindful, be aware, and moniter yourself so that you continue to have fun, meaningful (meaningful to you) activities that promote peace and balance in your life.
Console the Soul 