Redefining “Fun”

I’d like to spend some time redefining what we think of as "fun." When we think of fun, the first images that often come to mind are a playground, running around, goofing off, playing tag, kicking a ball, or video games. Going on a trampoline—that’s fun, right?

But when you dive into the research of Dr. William Glasser, author of Choice Theory, they define fun as a state of mind where we are actively playing. And when we are playing, we’re in a state of creativity—and more importantly, a state of learning.

So, here’s the key idea: when you’re having fun, you’re learning.

Fun doesn’t have to look a certain way. It doesn’t have to happen on a playground or a trampoline (although it absolutely can!). But if you want to expand your understanding of something and find yourself struggling to engage, maybe ask: Am I having fun with this?

In the process of learning, we all have different avenues and angles that help us succeed. Some people need to listen. Others need to experience something first hand. Some need visuals, and for many, it’s a blend of all these approaches.

It’s important to figure out your specific learning style—and to see how the element of fun ties into it. When you lean into what’s fun for you, learning becomes more natural, engaging, and, ultimately, more effective.