Seriously – my youngest said to me this week, "I want to go outside and frolic." So, on a balmy 50-degree day in December here in Chicago, we went outside and frolicked. She rode her scooter, performed a series of cartwheels, and I even did a really bad cartwheel myself. I’m not going to lie – there were a lot of other things I could have been doing: laundry, cleaning, work. But this year, one of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that I need to have more fun.
As we were getting ready to go outside, she asked me, "Do you know what it actually means to frolic?" So, I looked it up. The definition of frolic is to play and move about cheerfully, excitedly, or energetically.
You might be asking yourself: why am I going on and on about frolicking? Well, it’s because I think it’s one of the first things to disappear as we become unhappy and burnout sets in. Even as someone who considers themselves recovered from burnout, I’ve noticed that when I stop being able to experience joy, it’s a clear sign that stress and overwhelm are creeping back in.
Rediscovering Joy in Small Moments
Frolicking isn’t just about skipping or cartwheeling, though those are delightful. It’s about embracing moments of pure, unfiltered joy. Think back to your childhood or young adulthood. What brought you joy back then? Was it dancing around your living room to your favorite song? Spending hours doodling or painting? Riding a bike on a sunny day with no destination in mind?
When was the last time you did any of those things? If it’s been a while, you’re not alone. As responsibilities pile up, it’s easy to push joy and play to the bottom of our to-do list. But here’s the truth: joy isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.
The Science of Joy and Burnout Recovery
Burnout has a sneaky way of stealing your ability to connect with what makes life meaningful. Research shows that activities that spark joy can help combat stress and promote mental health. When you engage in something playful or fun, your brain releases endorphins – those feel-good chemicals that reduce stress and improve mood.
For healthcare workers, who often operate in high-stakes, high-pressure environments, finding moments to frolic can be a balm for the soul. It’s not about ignoring your responsibilities but about carving out space for joy to recharge and renew.
Practical Ways to Frolic as an Adult
So how can you bring a little frolicking back into your life? Here are some ideas:
1. Revisit Childhood Hobbies
Think about the activities you loved as a child. Did you enjoy roller skating, finger painting, or building sandcastles? You’re never too old to reconnect with those pastimes. The key is to approach them with the same playful spirit you had back then.
2. Move Playfully
Frolicking often involves movement, so find ways to move your body that feel joyful rather than obligatory. Dance to your favorite song, skip down the sidewalk, or try a yoga flow that makes you smile.
3. Spend Time in Nature
There’s something inherently playful about being outdoors. Climb a tree, jump in a pile of leaves, or simply take a meandering walk with no agenda.
4. Laugh More
Watch a funny movie, read a hilarious book, or spend time with someone who makes you laugh. Laughter is one of the quickest ways to reconnect with joy.
5. Be Spontaneous
Schedule-free moments are often where joy thrives. Give yourself permission to be spontaneous. If you see a puddle, jump in it. If you feel like singing loudly in the car, go for it.
Frolicking as a Signal
For me, frolicking has become a barometer of my mental health. When I find myself losing touch with my ability to play or have fun, it’s a wake-up call to reevaluate my balance and boundaries. Am I saying yes to too many obligations? Am I neglecting my own needs?
As a family physician and career coach, I often see this in my clients, especially those in healthcare. The nature of the work can make joy feel like an afterthought. But when you give yourself permission to frolic, you’re not just having fun; you’re reclaiming a vital part of your humanity.
Your Frolicking Challenge
I’m challenging you to do something playful this week. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or time-consuming. Maybe it’s blowing bubbles in your backyard, playing tag with your kids, or singing karaoke in your living room. Whatever it is, do it with your whole heart.
Then, reflect on how it made you feel. Did you notice a lightness or a shift in your mood? Did you feel more connected to yourself or your loved ones?
Frolicking Is for Everyone
Life is too short to let joy slip away. Frolicking isn’t just for kids; it’s for anyone who wants to live more fully and authentically. So the next time an opportunity to frolic presents itself, seize it. Put the laundry on hold, leave the emails for later, and let yourself play.
Because here’s the thing: when we make room for frolicking, we’re not just having fun. We’re reclaiming our balance, rediscovering our purpose, and finding joy in the journey. And isn’t that what life is all about?
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