Having fun makes life worth living. Sure, we work and pay bills to make sure our daily lives run smoothly. We also need to enjoy ourselves!

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What you define as fun relates to who you are as a person. Your approach to daily living can help increase the level of enjoyment you have in your life. Even going to your job can be less of a chore and more enjoyable. I often find I’m at my best when I tell myself I’m going to have a good day. Nevertheless, there are times during the work week when I don’t want to go. During those times I talk myself through the day. Sometimes, however, I really need a break. Not a major vacation, but time to recharge.

When I need the time, I take it. When you hit a rough spot talk yourself through the day. If your circumstances allow it, take a day off to do something special or nothing at all. That may be all it takes to feel refreshed. Create an existence that works for you in all aspects of your life. Do you like your job? Are you comfortable in your home environment? Are there things you can do to change your work and home life that would help you feel more relaxed and lighten your mood? If so, reflect on the changes needed in order to create a happier emotional climate and work on those changes. Something as simple as taking a different route to work can give you a better outlook once you get there. How about a new piece of furniture? Is there a landscaping project you have wanted to tackle? Adding a plant to an open space in or outside your home can add a splash of color and create depth. Have a backyard barbeque. Have friends come over for a game night. We all have the ability to have fun; we just need to explore our options and come up with ideas that fit with who we are.

I love playing catch with my dog. He can catch the ball for about fifteen minutes straight and its fun to count the number of times he retrieves it. This is a simple way to spend my time but I enjoy it and so does my dog! Okay, you’re thinking, that’s a little boring. Well, it may seem that way at first but I really believe we are all much better off if we learn to appreciate the small things in life. The small moments add up to a pleasant existence.

This article has been edited and excerpted from the book No Contact: Ending a Destructive Relationship with permission by Outskirt Press, Inc, copyright © 2008, Penny L. Haider. Penny L. Haider is a survivor of domestic abuse and grateful to have had the opportunity to change her life. She is a strong advocate for women, wanting to help others move forward in their lives by leaving destructive relationships behind. Penny is a licensed teacher with a Bachelor of Science in Community Service and Public Affairs from the University of Oregon. For more information visit www.nocontactbook.com

More articles by Penny L. Haider:

• Zero Tolerance for Abuse
• Stay Away and Focus on Your Healing
• Signs of an Abusive Relationship
• Don't Beat Yourself Up About Making Contact
• Breaking It Off
• Avoid Impulsive Thoughts to Make Contact
• Addicted to the Relationship?

For more articles on relationships, visit http://www.divorcemag.com/articles/Relationships/

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