Something is life-affirming, playful and fun about getting out of your comfort zone. 

It means jumping into the unknown headfirst but believing it will benefit you in the long run.

Are there actual categories for different “types” of fun? 

You bet there are! Three, in fact!

Straightforward, immediate fun is known as “Type 1 fun”. 

It’s enjoyable while you’re doing it and remains enjoyable in memory. Activities like watching a movie, a relaxing beach day, or playing a fun board game fall into this category.

“Type 2 fun” is a concept often used to describe activities or experiences that are challenging, uncomfortable, or even difficult.

While you become engaged in them as they happen, they are more enjoyable and memorable in hindsight. 

For example, intentionally taking a four-day adventure to explore nature by canoe, portaging all your belongings between lakes, sleeping in tents in the wilderness, and cooking meals over a fire. 

Then, suddenly living through a massive thunderstorm in the middle of the woods and not getting struck by lightning while huddled under a tree is the challenging, often gruelling kind of fun, not necessarily enjoyable while you’re in the midst of it. 

Still, the sense of accomplishment, bonding and community-building stories you gain from it makes it worthwhile. 

My friend Alexis Dean is all about Type 2 fun. 

She founded The Dovetail Community for the world’s top impact-driven female entrepreneurs. Alexis was why I joined six women I had never met last weekend to travel to Algonquin Park.

“For some folks, it’s surfing or joining a backcountry adventure where you paddle through thunderstorms and test your physical limits (like our recent Dovetail Canoe Adventure!) For others, Type 2 Fun is going to a retreat where you don’t know anyone, speaking in front of an audience, or trying something new that pushes your limits but leaves you feeling stronger, more resilient, and better off for giving it your all.”

“Sure,” Alexis admits, “you can stick to ‘Type 1 Fun’ and never leave your comfort zone, but ‘Type 2 Fun’ creates lasting memories and deep connections that make you feel ALIVE!”

So how can Type 2 fun be a good habit for your health and well-being?

1. Personal Growth: Overcoming obstacles and pushing your limits can boost your self-confidence and resilience, leading to personal growth and development. 
2. Mental Toughness: Type 2 fun experiences often require mental toughness and perseverance. These qualities can transfer to other areas of your life, helping you navigate challenges with a more positive mindset.
3. Mindfulness: Engaging in demanding activities, like we experienced portaging a long distance through a downpour, forces you to be fully present in the moment. This mindfulness can be beneficial for stress reduction and overall mental well-being.
4. Physical Health: Many Type 2 fun activities involve physical exertion, such as hiking, climbing, or participating in endurance sports. Regular physical activity (or play) is known to have numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular fitness and mental clarity.
5. Sense of Accomplishment: Overcoming the difficulties associated with Type 2 fun can provide a deep sense of accomplishment, increasing satisfaction and happiness.
6. Social Connection: Sharing challenging experiences with others can foster strong social connections and a sense of camaraderie. Bonding over shared hardships can create lasting memories and friendships.

Regarding Type 3 fun, this type of fun isn’t fun at all, neither during the experience nor in hindsight. It’s the kind of experience that’s best avoided if possible. 

So, with the few weeks of summer left, I encourage you to seek some Type 1 and Type 2 fun!

What’s the worst that can happen? What’s the upside? What’s the best that can happen? 

But what’s more difficult is not taking any action at all.

Play on!

Jan xox

PS: Whenever you are ready, here are three more ways I can help you PLAY for life:

1. Click here to grab a copy or listen to the Audible version of The Play Book: How To Get In The Habit Of Good Health
2. Join the FREE 7-Days of Healthy Habits Course that can help you starting today.
3. Want to work with me personally on your health while having fun? Click here to book a call.