I was recently laughing with a friend of mine over the challenge of balance in our lives.  Yes, there is the balance of work, play, family, self, etc., but I am talking specifically about the balance of a “well-planned” activity schedule.  I often find myself at the extremes of either over-scheduled or bored.  Either one has a different impact on me, none of which are terribly positive, especially the boredom.  Free time?  What am I supposed to do with that!?  I am always in search of that balance.

One of the things I notice during my unexpected free time is that I feel overwhelmed by the possibilities of what to do, so I end up doing nothing, which is not terribly satisfying.  I need a bit more purpose.  Two summers ago, however, I realized the benefit of an activity list, which has proven to be so helpful, that I began to keep two lists.  One is for annoying things that need to be taken care of around the house like sewing that button which fell off six months ago, cleaning the crystals on the chandelier, or cleaning out the closet.  The other list, which is way more fun, comprises restaurants to try, activities on my bucket list, or upcoming museum exhibits.  During my periods of boredom, I refer to these lists and start checking the tasks/ideas off one by one, which allows me the satisfaction of accomplishment.

Recently, I discovered a great new book called The Best Things to Do in New York: 1001 Ideas.  It has taken my “fun activity list” to a whole new level.  I thought that by living in New York, one eventually discovers the gist of what activities are available, but this book brings New York alive!  Whether a resident or tourist, I think it is a book for us all to peruse.  I learned about parks I did not even know existed.  I learned about the nooks and crannies of the places I’ve been to many times and thought I’d experienced them enough, only to learn that I have not.  Whatever your interest, this book has it, and the activities are all categorized!  If you are looking for outdoor activities, they are listed.  Interested in tea?  Listed.  Jazz?  Listed.  I am so excited about this summer’s activity list!

Looking for more?  Another idea is to look at 1001 Things You Must Do Before You Die, which also lists some interesting things.  It may bring to your mind ideas you had ages ago but forgot about completely.  It is also motivating and exhilarating to learn about all of life’s possibilities!

Some of you may say, “Why don’t you just relax?  Go read a book!”  I enjoy doing that sometimes, but I much more enjoy experiencing new things.  Life is too short, and I have learned that the more I experience new things, the more energized I feel.  And it makes me want to try, do, and learn even more.  I can rest when my body won’t let me move anymore.

I hope you check out these books and start making you “fun list.”  If you have already done so, I’d love to hear about some of your favorite adventures or experiences and why they meant so much to you!