The Power of Fun

About the Author

Catherine Price is an award-winning science writer, speaker, and consultant whose work has appeared in publications such as The New York Times, O: The Oprah Magazine, and The Best American Science Writing. With a focus on the intersection of health, psychology, and technology, Price has authored several influential books, including Vitamania and How to Break Up With Your Phone. She is also the founder of ScreenLifeBalance.com, a resource dedicated to helping people create more intentional relationships with technology and reconnect with what truly matters to them. In her latest work, The Power of Fun, Price delves into the importance of fun in our lives, exploring how it can lead to a more joyful, healthy, and fulfilling existence.

Main Idea

As we grow older, the notion of fun often takes a backseat to the never-ending list of adult responsibilities. However, Catherine Price argues that this doesn’t have to be the case. In The Power of Fun, she emphasizes that fun is not a frivolous indulgence but a fundamental aspect of living a happy and healthy life. Price introduces the concept of True Fun, which she defines as the intersection of playfulness, connection, and flow. According to Price, experiences that combine these elements not only bring immense joy but also improve our physical and emotional well-being. Through research, personal anecdotes, and insights from various experts, Price provides a compelling argument for why we should prioritize fun in our lives and offers practical strategies to help us do so.

Table of Contents

• What Is True Fun and Why Does It Matter?
• Playfulness: The Heart of Fun
• Connection: The Power of Belonging
• Flow: The Joy of Being in the Moment
• Why Are We Having Less Fun?
• Reclaiming Fun in a Busy World
• Creating a Fun-Filled Life
• Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of True Fun

What Is True Fun and Why Does It Matter?

In The Power of Fun, Catherine Price redefines what it means to have fun. She introduces the concept of True Fun, a type of fun that is not just enjoyable but also deeply fulfilling. True Fun is characterized by the convergence of three elements: playfulness, connection, and flow. Unlike the superficial fun of binge-watching TV shows or scrolling through social media, True Fun leaves us feeling energized, inspired, and more connected to ourselves and others.

Price argues that True Fun is not only the most enjoyable type of fun but also crucial for our overall well-being. She states,

“True Fun isn’t just about feeling good in the moment—it’s about creating experiences that leave us feeling better long after the fun has ended.” – Catherine Price

To understand why True Fun is so powerful, it’s essential to break down its three components: playfulness, connection, and flow.

Playfulness: The Heart of Fun

Playfulness is the first component of True Fun. It’s an attitude of curiosity, openness, and a willingness to experiment. Playfulness is about engaging in activities for the sheer joy of it, without any concern for productivity or outcomes. It’s a state of mind that allows us to embrace the moment, let go of inhibitions, and simply enjoy the experience.

According to Price, playfulness is not tied to any specific activity. Instead, it’s about the attitude you bring to whatever you’re doing. She explains:

“Playfulness is less about what you do and more about how you do it. It’s an approach to life that allows you to find joy in the mundane and excitement in the ordinary.” – Catherine Price

Price’s perspective on playfulness aligns with the research of psychiatrist Stuart Brown, the founder of the National Institute for Play. Brown identified eight different “play personalities,” each associated with a specific type of play: