Blog 80 More Laughter, Less Overwhelm: How I Made Fun a Priority in 2024
Bring joy, health, and connection to your life today!
Introduction
At the start of this year, I chose FUN as one of my guiding words for 2024. I wanted to step out of survival mode and find ways to bring more joy, laughter, and lightness into my life. As mums, it's so easy to get caught up in the daily grind—endless to-do lists, routines, and responsibilities—that we forget to live and enjoy the little moments. This year, I set out to change that.
From family adventures to prioritising my health, deepening friendships, and celebrating milestones, I committed to sprinkling more fun into my everyday life. And let me tell you, it has been a year I will always remember.
Here's how I prioritised "fun" and why you should consider doing the same.
A Year of Fun – My Journey
Family Adventures That Fill the Heart
Family Adventures That Fill the Heart
- Early in the year, we packed our bags and took our first overseas holiday since COVID—a beautiful trip to New Zealand with my three favourite people: my hubby and our kids. Seeing their excitement and wonder, exploring new places together, and being present as a family made my heart so full.
- My hubby and I celebrated 20 amazing years of love, growth, and teamwork this year! Hitting this milestone felt so special, and we made it even sweeter by scheduling weekly Friday lunch dates (school holidays excluded, of course). It's our way of keeping the spark alive and prioritising "us" time—it's non-negotiable on the calendar! This could be a meal at a cafe or having leftovers at home! It doesn't matter what we have; spending this time connecting is essential!
- And a personal highlight? My parents visited from Fiji for a few weeks. Having them here was such a gift—precious quality time that reminded me of the importance of connection with those we love most.
Prioritising My Health and Fitness
I wanted to feel stronger, healthier, and more energised this year. To make it happen, I invested in:
- A personal trainer to keep me accountable.
- Regular Pilates reformer classes close to home and work, making it easy to fit into my schedule.
- Walking my kids to school a couple of times a week—it's movement, connection, and a way to slow down all in one.
Making my health a priority gave me energy, a sense of accomplishment, confidence, and peace—proof that investing in yourself pays off.
Deepening Connections and Building Community
This year was also about making my relationships a priority:
- I committed to keeping my friendships alive by meeting up regularly. I stopped letting "busy" or "the kids" be an excuse, and it's been so rewarding. A coffee, a walk, or a simple catch-up can make a difference.
- My family and I also took a quick weekend getaway to Wollongong, which reminded me that even short breaks can recharge your soul and create beautiful memories.
- A March weekend getaway to the Hunter Valley for a family's members wedding was amazing!
Growing Personally and Professionally
I published 39 blogs this year (including this one!), and 19 were incredible collaborations with other amazing women—another guiding word for 2024 was Collaboration. Working alongside inspiring women brought much joy, learning, and growth into my year.
Blog on Collaboration:
Mukti Santos
Why Fun Matters (Even When You're Busy)
- Fun helps you recharge your energy
- Life is busy, and burnout happens when we constantly pour into everyone else without filling our cups. Fun is how you recharge—it reminds you of what brings you joy.
- It strengthens your relationships
- Spending time with loved ones—laughing, exploring, and being present—deepens connections. Fun creates lasting memories with your kids, partner, or friends.
- It keeps you grounded in the present
- Rushing through life robs you of the beauty in small moments. Slowing down and choosing fun helps you stay grounded and grateful for where you are now.
How You Can Add More Fun into Your Life
- Start small. You don't need to plan a huge trip—add little moments of joy, like a family movie night, a dance party in the kitchen, or a coffee date with a friend.
- Get intentional. Write down one thing you'll do this week just for fun. Make it a priority—like any other important appointment.
- Say YES to what lights you up. Choose activities that make you feel alive, whether it's a hobby, movement, or quality time with loved ones.
Blog on Magic:
Mukti Santos
Top Quotes
“Time flies when you are having fun”. Albert Einstein
“Having fun is not a diversion from a successful life; it is pathway to it.” Martha Beck
“Always appreciate the gift of life. Be happy and have fun.” Michael Jackson
“Never, ever underestimate the importance of having fun.” Randy Pausch
“Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometime your smile can be the source of your joy.” Thich Nhat Hahn
Questions for Reflection
- Are you prioritising fun and joy in your life right now? If not, what's holding you back?
- How do you feel spending quality time with loved ones without distractions?
- What's one thing you can do this week to reconnect with your playful, joyful side?
Let's make life less about "getting through the day" and more about enjoying the journey. You deserve it, mama. 💕
Conclusion
Choosing "fun" as my word for 2024 completely transformed my year—it brought so much joy, connection, and light into my life. From heartwarming family adventures and fitness milestones to deepened friendships and creative growth, I've been reminded how powerful it is to intentionally weave fun into each day.
Because honestly, what's the point of living each day if there's no sense of fun? Life isn't just about getting through the to-do lists; it's about finding those little moments that make your soul smile.
Mums, you don't need to wait for the perfect moment to prioritise joy. Start small, be intentional, and remember fun isn't a luxury—it's a daily necessity for a thriving, fulfilling life.
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But first, I’ll take a well-deserved Christmas break and jet to Fiji to spend time with my family. The best part? We’re celebrating my mum’s 70th birthday in January with a big family reunion—her dream come true! 🥳💖
I’m beyond excited for a summer filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments with everyone. Stay tuned for the blog comeback—it’ll be worth the wait! 🌟✨
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With much Love
Mukti Santos
“Do not take life too seriously. You will never get out of it alive.” Elbert Hubbard
🎄✨ Wishing You a Merry & Bright Christmas! ✨🎄
To my amazing readers, thank you for being here and supporting my blog journey! This marks my second year of blogging, and wow, what a ride it’s been. I’ve learned, evolved, and grown so much—and I’m excited to keep levelling up with you by my side. 🌟
I hope these blogs have been as useful and actionable for you as they’ve been meaningful for me to write. Your support truly means the world. ❤️
Here’s to a joyful, safe, and love-filled Christmas for you and your family. Let’s keep growing and thriving together in the new year! 🎉💌
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