What do you Love to Do?

One of my missions in life is to help people to live the life they want. That means getting clear on what you want. What brings you joy? I also believe that people should use their money responsibly for things they love and enjoy. How you spend your money should be aligned with your values.

One exercise that I like, is to write down a list of things I love to do. The assignment is to come up with at least 25 things you enjoy doing. I recommend brainstorming things you love to do and keep adding to the list.

Here is my initial list of things I love to do:

Read, sleep, talk or spend quality time with people I love, listen to good music, walk outside, go out to eat, snuggle with my children or husband, learn something new, drive (especially in a convertible), make collages, cook, sing, travel, help others, did I mention sleep already?, be at the beach, lay in the sun, workout, sit by a fire, laugh, color, create something pretty, connect with others and get a massage.

This list took me five minutes, not even that long.

What stands out for me in doing this exercise is:

1. How simple many of these items are and how they can be accomplished in various different ways. For example, for singing, I can sing in my car, sing in the shower, join a choir, do karaoke, take voice lessons, sing and do a dance party with my kids, sing at church etc.
2. How many of them do not cost much. Yes, some of them can be very expensive – like traveling overseas and going out to eat but many I could also do for little to no money.

When I have seen other peoples’ lists, most are pretty similar in that there are always simple things on the list and multiple items that you can do for free.

Having a list of things that brings me joy is a good reminder for when I am down or frustrated and needing to shift my mood. It is also good for ideas when I am trying to spend less money. This list shows what I value and what is important to me.

I highly recommend taking the time to do this quick exercise.

If you are not spending enough time doing the things you love then think about how you can bring more of those activities into your life – make them a priority. What can you give up, get rid of, delegate or let go of so you have more time for the activities and people who bring you the most joy?

I hope you are enjoying your summer!