Autumn: Hey, everyone, welcome to the show! Let's kick things off with a question: When was the last time you had “real” fun? I mean, not just passively watching videos or getting lost in social media, but the kind of fun that gave you genuine joy, energy, and made you feel really present? Rachel: Yeah, I bet for most of us, it’s been a while, hasn't it? Honestly, with everything we have to do, “fun” often feels like a luxury – something we get to if we ever find the time. Which, let's face it, we usually don't. Autumn: Precisely! But get this: science actually says that fun is “essential”. Not just a nice-to-have. According to Catherine Price, and the book we’re diving into today, “True Fun” – that's playfulness, connection, and flow all rolled into one – can seriously boost your well-being, spark your creativity, and even strengthen your relationships. Rachel: Okay, so we’re not just talking about silly giggles or weekend escapes. It's more like unlocking some kind of superpower? Autumn: Exactly! Price contrasts “True Fun” with “Fake Fun,” which includes things like mindlessly scrolling, binge-watching, you know, anything that might distract us but ultimately leaves us feeling drained. We're going to break down why we get stuck in that cycle, thanks to societal pressures, tech, even our own need to be perfect. Rachel: Right, and more importantly, how do we get “out” of it? I'm assuming it's not just about signing up for a pottery class or having a water balloon fight? Autumn: Nope, it's much more than that. We'll be talking about tools like the Fun Audit to help you pinpoint what “really” brings you joy. Plus, the science behind why fun is so important – for your brain, your health, and connecting with others. Rachel: So, the million-dollar question: how do we stop seeing fun as optional and treat it as a core part of our lives? Think of this episode as your roadmap to escaping the daily grind and getting back in touch with what makes life delightful.

Autumn: So, now that we’ve established the importance of fun, let’s dive into what “True Fun” really means. Catherine Price describes it as this amazing blend of playfulness, connection, and flow. If you're missing any of these key elements, you might be experiencing something that looks like fun on the surface, but it won't have the same kind of depth and lasting impact. Rachel: Okay, I’m listening, but I’m also playing devil’s advocate here. Doesn’t almost everything involve some level of playfulness or connection? What's so special about these three things? Let’s start with playfulness. What does that actually look like in real life? Autumn: Playfulness is basically a lighthearted attitude. It's about releasing all the burdens we carry such as responsibilities, fears of judgment, or the need to be perfect – and completely immersing ourselves in the moment, without any other goals. It’s about silencing that voice inside that says “you're wasting time” or “you’re not doing this right." Rachel: So, you're saying it's exactly the opposite of what adults are trained to do. That sounds like quite a challenge for most of us. Autumn: Exactly! That's why we learn to suppress it. But think back to a time when you laughed genuinely, without overthinking or worrying about what others thought. Price shares an example of a summer day she spent with friends, filled with sunshine, good food, and music. No set plans, just being present. That's playfulness in action. Rachel: Hmm, so playfulness isn't necessarily about playing a game or being super active, it's more about having the right mindset – like giving yourself permission to enjoy small, spontaneous moments? Autumn: Exactly. It's about letting joy into your life without overcomplicating things. Price even mentions that her daughter described the color of fun as "sunshine." That radiance, the warmth and brightness of the experience – that's playfulness at its core. You don't need to stop the world to feel it; it's about loosening that mental grip and just letting joy shine through. Rachel: Okay, I think I understand. But isn't playfulness something you'd usually need other people to bring out in you? Which leads us to connection, right? Autumn: Yes! And connection is so powerful. It's fundamental to human nature. True Fun often comes from meaningful interactions with others, where there’s shared enthusiasm and zero judgment. Take, for example, Price's “Fun Squad.” They shared stories of their happiest moments, and what stood out was how often these moments involved activities done together such as stargazing, playing music, or just hanging out. Rachel: So, connection doesn’t mean you have to be best friends or meet some social quota. It's just about being in moments where everyone feels comfortable and you're all vibing together. But this isn't only for extroverts, right? Because I can already hear my introverted friends protesting. Autumn: You’re absolutely right, Rachel. Connection isn't about being the life of the party. It’s about that sense of quality of the interaction, not the quantity. Even introverts can experience profound connection through quieter moments – a deep conversation, working together on something creative, or just sharing a laugh with someone they trust. Connection comes in many forms to suit everyone’s needs. Rachel: And then there's flow, the final part of this trio. Flow seems like it might be the hardest one to really understand. What is it exactly, and why is it so important for True Fun? Autumn: Flow is that state where you're completely absorbed in what you're doing, time seems to disappear, and you're totally present. Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi did a lot of research on this. It happens when you're completely focused on an activity that feels both challenging and within your capabilities. You're not distracted, you're not thinking about what's next or what went wrong yesterday. You're just in it, fully experiencing it. Rachel: So, it's more than just binge-watching something or endless scrolling, which are mostly passive distractions? Autumn: Exactly. Flow requires active participation. It could be during a jam session where you lose track of time or a really engaging conversation that energizes you. There’s this story in the book where someone remembers singing "Bohemian Rhapsody" at the top of their lungs with friends on a road trip. That kind of immersive, energetic joy is peak flow. You’re connected, you’re playful, and you’re completely present. Rachel: And that's where True Fun lives – in this spot where these three things meet. But here's my question: how do we know if what we're experiencing is True Fun and not just a cheap imitation, like this "Fake Fun" you mentioned? Autumn: Great question. The difference really comes down to how you feel afterward. Fake Fun like endlessly scrolling on social media or mindlessly watching TV might seem enjoyable at the moment, but it often leaves you feeling drained, empty, or even regretful. True Fun, on the other hand, is invigorating. It leaves you feeling connected, fulfilled, and alive. Rachel: So, if something feels more like a sugar crash than a warm glow, it's probably Fake Fun? Autumn: Exactly. And that's a “really” important thing to understand, because many of us settle for Fake Fun without realizing there's something much more fulfilling out there. Recognizing this helps us move towards activities that truly benefit us. When you reflect on joyful memories or ask yourself why you enjoyed specific moments, it can help identify what qualifies as True Fun for you. Rachel: Got it. So, instead of asking, "Was that fun?" we should be asking ourselves, "Did this activity make me feel alive, connected, and fully present?" That's the real test. Autumn: You nailed it. Understanding True Fun completely changes how we approach joy in our lives. It's less about checking activities off a list and more about creating experiences that truly enrich us. From here, the question becomes how do we overcome the obstacles and really prioritize this kind of joy? That’s what we’ll get into next.

Autumn: Okay, so now that we've defined True Fun, let's tackle the real challenge: the barriers that get in our way . Because knowing what brings us joy is one thing, but making it happen ? That's often a different story . We're facing some pretty strong headwinds here. Rachel: Exactly, modern life kind of barges in as the villain, doesn't it ? So, it's not as simple as just ditching our smartphones and learning to juggle? Autumn: If only! These barriers are deeply ingrained, often baked right into our daily lives and culture . Catherine Price identifies three main culprits: tech addiction, perfectionism, and this societal pressure to be productive all the time . Each of these drags us further from those playful, connected, flow-state experiences. Rachel: Alright, let's start with tech addiction . It feels like a black hole, and I say that as someone who reflexively grabs his phone every chance he gets. Autumn: You're definitely not alone there . Technology has reshaped how we live and interact . And while it's convenient, it also scatters our attention and weakens real connections . Price uses the term "attention economy," which is how tech companies profit by designing platforms to keep us hooked and scrolling . It's addictive by design. Rachel: And what makes it so insidious is how subtle it is . I mean, who hasn't lost hours to random content ? You start checking the news, and suddenly you're watching videos about competitive dog grooming. Autumn: Precisely . The book has a striking example . Price talks about mindlessly scrolling through vintage door hardware photos while rocking her baby to sleep ! Can you imagine ? Holding your child, a moment for pure connection, but you're lost in a digital void . For her, it was a clear sign that her phone was stealing her most meaningful experiences. Rachel: Ouch, I can almost feel that . It's like when you realize you've been "doomscrolling" for the last hour and you feel worse than before you started . So, does the book offer solutions to escape this digital trap? Autumn: Definitely . Small, deliberate changes can make a huge difference . One suggestion is "digital sabbaths"—set times for complete device breaks . Another is "screen-free zones," especially during meals or family time, to be fully present with what truly matters. Rachel: I like that . It's not about demonizing tech, but reclaiming your attention . Though, realistically, putting the phone down requires willpower . Maybe even hiding the charger. Autumn: It takes practice, for sure, but even short breaks can help restore focus and engagement . How much more fun and connected would dinner be if everyone's phones were away, and you actually talked, maybe even laughed? Rachel: Revolutionary, really . Okay, next barrier: perfectionism . That feels like kryptonite for fun, right ? You're so worried about doing something "right" that you can't enjoy it. Autumn: Exactly . Fun and perfectionism are polar opposites . Fun thrives on experimentation and letting go of outcomes, while perfectionism traps us in fear of failure, fear of judgment . And that leads to paralysis . We avoid activities that could bring joy simply because we're afraid of looking silly or "not being good enough." Rachel: This reminds me of all the times I've hesitated to try something new, like dancing, because I'm convinced I'd embarrass myself . My brain just short-circuits at the thought. Autumn: That's a very common reaction . Price offers a great reframing: “What's the worst that could happen ?" When you really think about it, most fears are irrational . So, you try dancing and you're not great . Worst case ? Someone might laugh with you – or, more likely, no one even notices . But what's the potential upside ? You might have an amazing time. Rachel: Interesting . It's like Margaret Talbot's idea that mediocrity is a form of rebellion . Allowing yourself to be “okay” at something — pottery, karaoke, whatever—opens the door to enjoying the process instead of obsessing over the result, right? Autumn: Exactly . Rejecting perfectionism is like giving yourself permission to come alive again . It doesn't mean abandoning all standards, of course . It's about prioritizing joy over flawless execution . Even embracing small imperfections, like doodling without criticizing yourself, can be incredibly freeing. Rachel: Right, it's like saying, “Why let the fear of imperfection rob you of all the absurd, weird, and wonderful moments that make life fun?" So, what's the next barrier ? Let me guess—the productivity trap? Autumn: Bingo . This is probably the most deeply ingrained . Our culture glorifies busyness and equates our value with achievement, making us feel guilty for taking breaks or doing something "frivolous." Fun becomes a taboo indulgence instead of being seen as essential. Rachel: And I bet that mindset spills over everywhere, not just work . Even downtime is pressured – you're supposed to monetize your hobbies so they're still "productive." Autumn: Precisely . The idea that every moment must be optimized leaves no room for joy, spontaneity, or simply being . But the book shares a delightful counterexample: a group of friends organized an impromptu adventure involving a kiddie pool and a laundry basket ! It wasn't about achieving anything; it was pure, silly fun . And it's a cherished memory years later. Rachel: I love that picture—it's a reminder that the best memories are often from moments when we "waste" time together . So, what's the solution here ? How do we actively resist this productivity obsession? Autumn: Deliberate rebellion! Push back against the idea that every moment has to serve some external goal . Schedule time for leisure or play, even if it feels wrong . For example, deliberately choosing to spend a holiday in an unconventional way, or just taking an afternoon to nap in the sun, can help reset how you value unstructured time. Rachel: So, making space for fun is an act of defiance . It's saying, “I'm not just a cog—I'm a human who deserves joy for its own sake." Autumn: Exactly! By recognizing these barriers—whether it's our phones, our perfectionism, or societal pressures—we can take steps to overcome them and create space for the kind of transformative, nourishing fun that so often eludes us.

Autumn: So, identifying these barriers naturally leads us to a crucial question: how do we actually break them down and bring more fun into our lives? How do we transition from understanding True Fun to actually living it? Rachel: Exactly, because understanding the problem is only the first step. The real challenge is turning that awareness into consistent action. So, where do we even start? How do we make this feel-good concept a real part of our daily lives? Autumn: Well, it starts with intention. Catherine Price has some brilliant strategies for cultivating True Fun, practical tools like the Fun Audit, creating a Fun Toolkit, and even designing spaces that encourage playfulness and connection. These steps bridge the gap between theory and practice, giving us a framework to actually prioritize fun. Rachel: Okay, let’s take these one by one, starting with the Fun Audit. It sounds a little…intense, doesn't it? For something supposed to be, well, fun? Autumn: It's less intimidating than it sounds, I promise. The Fun Audit is basically a reflection exercise that helps you see where joy and energy naturally show up in your life - and where they don't. It's about assessing your experiences to identify what truly sparks those feelings of playfulness, connection, and, you know, flow. Rachel: So, it's like the joy version of balancing your checkbook—except instead of dollars, you're tracking moments that made you feel alive versus, I don't know, the soul-crushing moments? Autumn: Pretty much! One of the core exercises Price recommends is journaling. At the end of each day, you jot down the moments that stood out—times you felt happy, alive, or at ease—and, just as important, those that left you drained or disengaged. And you’re looking at the context—what were you doing, who were you with, and how did that make you feel? Rachel: It reminds me of that person in the book who realized they had the most fun during what was technically a work event—those brainstorming sessions with coworkers. It wasn't obvious at first, but after reflecting, they saw the laughter and collaborative energy were the highlight of their day. Autumn: Exactly! That clarity can only come from intentional reflection. And it works both ways, you also start noticing the activities we think are “fun” but actually drain us. Price calls this Fake Fun, like endless phone scrolling or zoning out in front of the TV—leaving you feeling emptier. Rachel: So, with the audit, you’re not just identifying the good stuff—you’re also weeding out what pretends to be fun but doesn’t actually nourish you, right? Autumn: Exactly. It's such an empowering process because it gives you the data to recalibrate your time and energy. By figuring out the activities that add fulfillment versus the ones that detract, you can steer your life toward more joy-inducing moments. Rachel: I see the benefit. But once you’ve done the audit and pinpointed what lights you up, what’s next? Is that where the Fun Toolkit comes in? Autumn: Yes! The Fun Toolkit is like your personal arsenal of joy. It’s a collection of activities, ideas, even objects that can help you tap into playfulness, connection, and flow whenever you need a boost. Think of it like having a go-to playlist for life, but instead of songs, it’s tools for fun. Rachel: Alright, now you have me curious. What's actually inside this hypothetical toolkit? Balloons? Glitter? A karaoke machine? Autumn: Potentially, yes! The beauty of it is that it’s custom-made for you. Start by reflecting on what sparks joy for you—maybe childhood games, creative hobbies, or simple pleasures like a deck of cards or a favorite puzzle. Price even suggests keeping a “fun times journal” where you document joyful memories or ideas and can revisit when you’re feeling stuck. Rachel: And what’s this “microdoses” versus “booster shots” thing? Does that mean different types of fun require different approaches? Autumn: Exactly. Microdoses are small, spontaneous joy-inducing activities—like a silly dance in your living room or a quick chat with a friend. They're easy to integrate into your day and act like little sparks of delight. Booster shots, on the other hand, are more immersive experiences that might take more effort and coordination, like planning an adventure or hosting a game night. Rachel: I love that analogy. It’s like comparing grabbing a high-energy espresso shot on a Monday morning to sitting down for a full Sunday brunch. Both are satisfying but serve different needs. Autumn: Perfect analogy. One example from the book is a group of friends who organize an annual summer karaoke night. So, it's a booster shot of fun—they sing their hearts out, laugh, and make memories that last far beyond that one evening. Those experiences become traditions that “really” anchor joy in your life. Rachel: It’s funny—it sounds almost too intentional, this idea of treating fun as something to plan and execute, rather than something that just shows up spontaneously. Autumn: I know, right? But intentionality is key. By having a Fun Toolkit ready to go, with microdoses and opportunities for deeper immersion, you’re positioned to break through the monotony and inject bursts of joy into your routine. Rachel: Okay, so we’ve got the Fun Audit for analysis, and the Fun Toolkit. That leaves one more layer - environments. This idea of designing playful spaces—what's the takeaway there? Autumn: Designing playful environments is about creating the conditions that encourage joy, spontaneity, and connection, whether at home, at work, or in social settings. Think creative gatherings, colorful settings, or even just little props to start something. Rachel: Like that example in the book of the wine tasting night. But instead of a stuffy, formal affair, the host turned it into a blind taste test with fun discussions—it got everyone laughing and connecting. Something simple, it transformed the atmosphere. Autumn: Exactly. It’s less about extravagance and more about creating an inviting space where people feel free to relax and engage. Another example is adding small, playful details, like bringing bubbles to a picnic. It's unassuming but delights everyone, creating shared joy. Rachel: And how about guarding these environments—like guarding against the buzzkills who might sabotage the vibe? Autumn: Yes, Price talks about the importance of inclusivity and safeguarding the spirit of play. It's about curating experiences that welcome everyone and gently steering clear of negativity. A joyful environment is fragile; it thrives on positive energy and mutual respect. Rachel: So, it’s not just about the physical setup—it’s about fostering the right emotional atmosphere, too. I like that. It's almost like fun isn’t just an experience; it’s a culture you cultivate. Autumn: Exactly! Whether it’s auditing your day, stocking your toolkit, or designing the spaces around you, every step you take makes fun more accessible, intentional, and sustainable.

Autumn: Alright, so we’ve looked at the obstacles and we've got our toolkit ready. Now, let's dive into why prioritizing True Fun is a game-changer. This isn’t just about feeling good in the moment; it's about the lasting impact it has on your well-being, your relationships, even your ability to innovate. Rachel: Exactly! So, we're talking about shifting from the mechanics of having fun to actually understanding its core value. Why dedicate our time and energy to fun when, frankly, most of us are already struggling to keep up with daily life? Autumn: Catherine Price breaks down the benefits into three key areas: stress reduction, stronger relationships, and a boost in creativity and productivity. It's not just about enjoying life; it’s about building a solid foundation for overall well-being. Rachel: Okay, I'm intrigued. Let’s start with stress reduction, because yeah, intuitively it makes sense that fun helps us relax. But is there more to it than just that surface level? Autumn: Absolutely. When we're stressed, our bodies pump out cortisol, that pesky "stress hormone." But what's less known is that chronically high cortisol levels can actually impair the prefrontal cortex—the part of our brain responsible for rational thought and decision-making. That leads to impulsive choices, emotional instability, and those not-so-great coping mechanisms, like, you know, endless scrolling or emotional eating. Rachel: Oh, I know that cycle all too well, especially after a long day. Then, the sofa becomes a black hole and a bag of chips magically disappears as I'm glued to my phone. I’m guessing that's what Price would call “Fake Fun"? Autumn: Precisely. Those "Fake Fun" activities may seem like a release, but they don't offer genuine restoration. True Fun on the other hand, triggers the release of serotonin and dopamine—those neurochemicals that actually make us feel relaxed and genuinely happy. Rachel: Okay, so True Fun isn't just a reward we give ourselves after work; it's like hitting a reset button for our brain chemistry, directly counteracting the effects of stress. Does she offer any specific examples of how that plays out in real life? Autumn: One vivid example she gives is when she found herself just being silly with her daughter, singing loudly and just goofing around while they were working on a school project. It might seem insignificant, but those moments actually relieved her stress, revitalized her energy, and gave her a renewed sense of focus. Rachel: I love that! So, it's less about seeking an escape and more about intentionally creating moments of joy to recharge. So, what are some practical ways people can incorporate this into their day-to-day? Autumn: Price suggests things like scheduling playful activities or incorporating "mini fun breaks" into your routine. Think of it as a quick dance break while you're cooking, a funny phone call with a friend, or even watching a short, hilarious video—anything that lifts your spirits without draining you. Rachel: Mini doses of dopamine, I like it! Alright, what about social connections? Fun must be more crucial to building and maintaining relationships than we realize. Autumn: Absolutely. Shared joy creates really strong bonds. When we laugh or engage in playful activities together, it breaks down those barriers—hierarchies melt away, biases fade, and there's this sense of unity in the moment, but also something that lasts. It's like an emotional superglue. Rachel: That reminds me of that John Cleese quote: "It's almost impossible to maintain any kind of distance or hierarchy when you're howling with laughter.” It’s so true—laughter really does level the playing field. Autumn: Exactly, the book references research on "mirthful laughter," which not only boosts endorphins but also nurtures trust and a sense of belonging. A great example is this idea of "fun squads" that Price talks about, small groups that deliberately engage in shared joyful experiences like hiking or even stargazing. Rachel: These aren't elaborate events. It's not about throwing a fancy party, just shared simplicity. Laughing around a fire, looking up at the stars—that's what solidifies connection. Autumn: Exactly. It’s about presence, not extravagance. She also emphasizes the power of having traditions or rituals—like a yearly game night or a camping trip—to keep those connections alive. Rachel: This makes me realize how important fun is as an antidote to loneliness. People often say they're too busy to connect, but maybe they're busy with the wrong things. These low-effort moments of joy could be the key to maintaining those vital ties. Autumn: Exactly, and by prioritizing these moments, you're really strengthening your support system. The bonds built through shared fun are the ones you lean on when things get tough. It's like preventative care for your emotional health. Rachel: Alright, you’ve convinced me on stress and connection. But I’m still curious about this creativity and productivity angle. How does goofing off actually make you smarter? Autumn: Great question. Playful activities really reduce stress and create a mental space that allows for cognitive flexibility—the ability to think outside the box. That’s why creativity and fun are often linked. When we're immersed in these flow states, our brains are actually able to generate innovative ideas and solutions more effortlessly. Rachel: Ah yes, “flow” comes up again. It sounds like the magic ingredient for both fun and productivity. Can you break down that connection a bit more? How does being in a flow state help you overcome a creative block, for example? Autumn: Well, it's all about achieving deep immersion where distractions and stress melt away. When you're in a state of flow—like brainstorming with friends or getting lost in a creative project—you're more receptive to divergent thinking, which then leads to those "aha!" moments. Rachel: So, instead of forcing productivity through sheer will and caffeine, you actually recharge your brain through fun, and that creativity follows... It feels counterintuitive, but in a “really” positive way. Autumn: It is wonderfully counterintuitive! Price actually recounts a story about how some workers incorporated short, lighthearted brainstorming sessions into their lunch breaks. These breaks not only increased morale, but some of their best ideas came from those sessions. Rachel: It completely flips the script, doesn't it? We tend to think of work and fun as opposites, when in reality, they amplify each other. And outside the office, creativity also blossoms in environments of lightness. Autumn: Exactly. Price suggests scheduling playful breaks or actively seeking activities that naturally foster flow—whether that’s creating music, building something, or any activity that makes you lose track of time. Rachel: So ultimately, True Fun recalibrates everything—from how we handle stress to how we connect with others, and even how we tap into our creative potential. It “really” comes down to treating fun as essential, not optional. Autumn: Absolutely. By understanding these benefits, we’re not just making a case for fun; we’re making a case for a richer, more fulfilling life—one that prioritizes joy, connection, and creativity at its very core. What could be more important than that?

Autumn: And that “really” underscores why making fun a lifelong priority is so important. That's what the conclusion explores. Looking ahead, what's really exciting is thinking about integrating fun into our entire lives. Not just thinking about, you know, having fun tomorrow or next week, but really embedding it as a key part of how we live. Rachel: Okay, a long-term relationship with fun—I like that concept. I'm guessing it's not just about booking more vacations, right? Or, you know, picking up a hobby every now and then. So, what does it really mean to make fun a lifelong practice? Autumn: Right, so, to really weave fun into your life, you can't see it as, like, a fleeting thing or something you can skip. You need to actively go after it, protect it, and, you know, find new ways to make it work as you change. It's not a one-time thing, it's more like building a muscle. It's about, you know, committing to joy as a fundamental part of living well. Rachel: Wait a second, "protecting fun"? That sounds kind of strange, like defending chaos. How does that even work? Autumn: Well, protecting fun is about pushing back on the idea that work is all that matters. You know, challenging that "grind culture" that tells us we're only valuable if we're productive. For example, the book talks about a family that totally changed Thanksgiving. Instead of the usual stressful, formal dinner, they moved it to the weekend. Without all that travel stress, it became a really fun, meaningful celebration. That little change turned the whole holiday around! Rachel: So, it's not about turning society upside down, it's about tweaking things to, you know, bring in more joy and connection. So, you're saying fun grows when we rethink how we should be living? Autumn: Exactly! And these changes don’t have to be huge. Small things, like making a family event playful instead of formal, can bring joy back into our lives. It’s about valuing what's real, what makes you feel alive, and the relationships you have, instead of focusing on expectations. Rachel: Okay, I’m sold on the idea. What’s the next step? How do I make this more than just a few good memories, but, like, a lasting lifestyle? Autumn: That's where things like rituals, seasonal reflections, and building community come in. Let's start with daily rituals– those little doses of joy you weave into your day. Price talks about things like dancing to your favorite song when you wake up, or just having a quick, fun chat with someone you love. Rachel: So, something as simple as, like, a five-minute dance party with the kids? It's easy enough to actually do, but, you know, big enough to change your mood. I see how rituals would keep fun from just disappearing. Autumn: Exactly. And these aren’t just random bursts of joy, they set the tone for how you live. Life changes, so how you find fun should too, right? A quarterly "Fun Audit" helps you, like, figure out what might be keeping you from having fun and seeing new possibilities. Someone in the book, for example, found joy in being indoors during a really rainy spring. They did puzzles, they baked– things that just felt right for that time! Rachel: So, we’re seeing joy as something that changes, which, makes sense—it’s not one size fits all. That sounds kind of freeing. Autumn: Exactly. And just as the people you surround yourself with are also crucial. Fun is better when you share it, so building or keeping circles that really value joy is key. Think of groups like the "Fun Squad" in the book. Regular get-togethers – whether it’s game night, hiking, or whatever feels right – create reasons for laughter and connection, and deepen relationships in the process. Rachel: It really drives home that fun isn’t a solo project. It’s about intentionally creating situations where joy is something that everyone can experience, whether that’s your family, your friends, or people you work with. This all sounds fantastic, but fun doesn’t exist in a bubble. Life throws curveballs. How do you hold onto joy when you’re dealing with stressors and setbacks, or just straight up failing? Autumn: Ah, that's where resilience comes in. Keeping fun alive for the long haul involves embracing the fact that things won’t always be perfect and, you know, reframing those challenges. Price shares the story of a couple trying to learn salsa dancing. They were constantly messing up in their first classes, but instead of, like, being embarrassed, they laughed about it. Laughing at their mistakes not only kept them coming back to the class, but actually brought them closer as a couple. Rachel: I love that—turning something that could have been frustrating into something fun. That’s a real shift in perspective, isn’t it? Autumn: Absolutely. The idea of "playful imperfection" is that fun doesn’t have to be flawless to be worthwhile, right? By laughing at ourselves or, you know, embracing the mess, we make room for joy even when things aren’t going our way. Rachel: So, setbacks don’t have to be roadblocks—they can be a chance to respond in a lighter, more joyful way. I love it. And when you combine all these strategies—a playful mindset, daily doses of fun, connection, and resilience—it starts to look less like a one-time thing and more like a foundation for how you live. Autumn: Exactly. And that's what's so transformative about this approach—it redefines fun as not just something you do, but as part of who you are. By integrating these practices, we’re not just making things more enjoyable, we’re reshaping how we live our lives, period.

Autumn: Okay, so to recap, we've really dug into how "True Fun"—and remember, that's playfulness, connection, and flow—can reshape pretty much everything we do. We talked about what gets in the way, like our addiction to tech, that drive for perfection, and the whole productivity obsession. Plus, we shared some hands-on strategies, like that Fun Audit, your own personalized Fun Toolkit, and even how to set up your environment to spark more joy. The key thing is to remember fun isn't just some quick laugh; it's seriously powerful for chilling us out, bringing us together, and unlocking our creative sides. Rachel: Right, and it’s not just about personal gains either. We’ve seen how this pursuit of fun can really be a lifelong journey. Whether it's carving out space for joy in the middle of all the madness, creating communities that value laughter, or even learning to laugh at our own screw-ups, this whole thing about fun is about grabbing back our humanity in a world that seems to push it to the side. Autumn: Precisely! And that's the core message here: Fun isn't a luxury, it's not self-indulgent, and it’s definitely not something you can skip. It’s actually a bold move against burnout and feeling disconnected. It's choosing a life bursting with energy and meaning. Rachel: So, really, ask yourself, what's one tiny change you can make this week to bring a bit more fun into your life? Maybe it's a quick five-minute dance break, calling up an old friend you haven't spoken to in ages, or dusting off an old hobby that used to light you up. Just start somewhere. Because life is way too short to settle for "Fake Fun"—go after the real stuff that makes you feel truly alive. Autumn: Exactly! So remember everyone: Fun isn’t something you just find lying around; it’s something you intentionally create. I'm talking about putting joy at the very foundation of how we live.