Define "Fun"

“What’s Fun for Other People May Not Be Fun for You–and Vice Versa.” – Gretchen Rubin

Ben planned the perfect Costa Rican honeymoon for us when we got married. He planned some great excursions including an ATV tour, zip lining, horseback riding, a water slide, and hot springs. My excitement turned to guilt when I had a huge, sudden panic attack before getting on the zip line. I don’t like heights or going fast, and I had been zip lining in Ecuador so I already knew this was something I don’t enjoy. But I begged Ben to do it without me because I knew he would love it. Our guide asked if I wanted to try again, and when I told him no, he asked if I wanted to go find a toucan instead. “YES! That’s exactly what I want to do.” Even though I was happy when I got to see a toucan, I felt so guilty, and I wanted to be the kind of girl that enjoys zip lining and adventures. Unfortunately, that is not something I can change about myself.

Some people enjoy being social every night of the week. Others prefer to stay home and watch Netflix instead. Some people define fun as skydiving, but others define fun as finding a new bookstore. Some couples enjoy a date night at a romantic restaurant while others like to watch football and eat wings for date night. Not everyone likes jazz music or basketball or historical fiction books or mango.

Everyone was created differently with different interests, desires, passions, and ideas of fun. And that’s okay. That’s the beauty of this thing called life. This is what keeps it interesting.

While I’m a fan of trying new things, don’t try to force yourself to love something that you simply just don’t. On that same note, don’t call someone crazy because they don’t have the same interests or hobbies you do. The one exception is for people who like chocolate mint. That stuff is gross! LOL! And I feel sorry for the people who aren’t as cool as me and enjoy a weekend of binge-watching M*A*S*H* or Harry Potter. I’m totally kidding. But seriously.

So the next time someone mentions that they love Italian food, don’t respond with, “Ewe I hate Italian food. Chinese food is way better.” Instead, say something like, “I didn’t realize you love Italian food. That’s interesting. My favorite is actually Chinese.” You’re saying the same thing but in a way nicer way. If someone mentions they are a big fan of a sport you hate, find out why they love it, and you might be surprised to find out.

While we don’t agree on everything, I think it’s important to learn and respect each other’s interests and passions. Define "Fun" for yourself and run with it. Learn about other's versions of fun, but give yourself a big dose of grace if you don't enjoy it as well. I hope this makes your day just a little bit happier.