Embracing spontaneity is good for you. Here's why and how to start today
One of the many consequences of the pandemic is that it has disrupted our social lives and spoiled even the best-laid plans. Even now, many of us are more cautious about where we go and who we choose to meet.
Where before we might have gone out for a spur-of-the-moment dinner or drinks with friends, now we are more likely to consider every facet of the decision about where to meet so we can book ahead.
Without being aware of the affliction, many of us may suffer from an excess of orderliness, caution, and rigidity.
But spontaneity can lead to memorable moments, which means making plans on the fly is good for your mind, body, and soul. Here are three good reasons to embrace spontaneity.
- It will make you happy
Being open to spontaneous events gives your mind time to reflect on things differently.
Instead of going from one planned event to the next in a rigid and structured way, acting on impulse gives you a rare opportunity to tap into the sense of awe and curiosity you had when you were younger, helping you to see and experience the richness of life.
Spontaneous people generally take an optimistic view of life. They tend to make the best of every situation and are ready to seize every advantage life offers.
Although happiness can be a fleeting concept, this kind of positive mindset means you’re more likely to always see the bright side. We all have our share of trials, but those of us who embrace spontaneity are more likely to remain resilient and be ready to face the next thing life throws in our path.
- It helps you stay young at heart
Children are far more spontaneous than many adults tend to feel able to be. As responsible grown-ups, we have routines and responsibilities that fill our schedules, leaving little time for anything as frivolous as spontaneity.
However, this "adult" approach to life can prevent us from growing and evolving. Even while fulfilling our daily adult duties, it's important to be open to trying new things without overanalysing it, or scheduling it into your diary.
By embracing spontaneity, you'll stay fresh. Instead of sitting on the couch watching TV every evening, allowing some spontaneity into your life will mean you'll be out having new adventures and enjoying different experiences. This way, you’re also more likely to make lasting memories and create feelings that will fill you with happy hormones.
- You will be less stressed
Spontaneous people are less likely to get stressed. Their positive mindset means they understand that life goes on, even when things don't go according to plan.
By being more prepared to play things by ear, as someone who embraces spontaneity, you’re less likely to get upset when confronted by a problem you didn't expect, and will be ready to handle things better than someone who is less spontaneous.
When life does become stressful, if you're spontaneous, you'll be ready to shake things up and find effective ways to relieve the stress and move past whatever hurdle life may put in your way.
Ways you can be more spontaneous
If you’re convinced and ready to embrace spontaneity, here are a few simple things you can start doing today.
Say yes more of the time
Next time someone asks you to do something, say yes. Accept invitations, agree to offers that come your way. Say yes to things even if you find the idea a little scary. You may not enjoy every experience, but you’ll learn something new along the way.
Call a friend
When was the last time you made a call without scheduling time to chat first? Text messaging is brilliant and hugely convenient, but sending texts has reduced the number of real-life spontaneous interactions we engage in. So, next time you think about an old friend, pick up the phone and call them. Or, even better, if they live locally, pop by and knock on their door to say hello and catch up in person.
Go on an aimless journey
Walk for the joy of walking. Head out without a plan or errand and take a stroll without a route. Hop off the train at a station you've never been to before or grab your OS map and find a new and interesting route you've yet to explore. However you travel, the important thing is to do so without having a pre-set destination in mind so you can get the full benefit of a surprise ending, whatever that turns out to be.
