What is the saying? “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” is a 17th-century proverb that means without time off from work, a person becomes both bored and boring. It is even more relevant in 2026, if you ask me. I have seen a shift in the lives of not only my clients but also in my personal space since the COVID pandemic. When things got slower and shut down out of necessity, people found out how beneficial it is to have work-life balance. I have even incorporated leisure into my ideal week. Not only do I believe it is good to have fun on the weekend, but I also try to fit it in during the week.
Here are 3 reasons to have a Leisure Companion:
They encourage you to have fun. They remind you that life is not just about work, responsibilities, and accomplishing goals. They encourage you to make room for laughter, enjoyment, and experiences that bring you joy. The benefits are numerous to having someone you can have fun with. From resetting your nervous system to giving you margin in emotional resilience, it is imperative to have a partner in crime to have fun/leisure with.
They help you experience new things. They are willing to explore, travel, try new activities, attend events, or simply break away from your normal routine. They help you create experiences and memories outside of your responsibilities. How this benefits you is by strengthening your brain’s neural pathways. By experiencing new things with a leisure mate, it also helps you with your identity. You are so much more than just a title or role on your job or in your career. It also makes for exciting conversations once you begin to explore and find out what you like to do.
When I was growing up, there was a commercial where the man, with the driest tone, would say, “It’s time to make the donuts.” It is draining to do the same old, same old day in and day out. Your Leisure Companion can help rescue you from the stagnation loop.
They help you rest and recharge. They understand that leisure is not wasted time. They encourage you to slow down, disconnect from productivity, and enjoy the present moment so you can return to your responsibilities refreshed. Who would have thought that having a person to experience leisure with can help prevent burnout? If you are able to rest and recharge, the benefits include cardiovascular health, enhanced immune function, improved sleep quality, and reduced muscle tension. Your recreation pal can help you by telling you to go take a nap and does not mind just chilling on the beach with you because they know how essential this is to your livelihood.
So, who is your Leisure Companion? Who is the person who reminds you that life is meant to be lived and not just managed? Your Life Board™ should include people who help you accomplish your goals, but it should also include someone who reminds you to laugh, explore, rest, and simply enjoy your life.
If you need help identifying the people who belong on your Life Board™, don’t hesitate to reach out to Nekeshia c/o Meraki Counseling at 832-779-3039 or merakicounseling@outlook.com. The Life Board™: A Guided Journal to Reflect on the People Who Anchor, Affirm, and Align You is also available to help you intentionally build the community you need to live a flourishing life.
