The art of adding whimsy to your life is gaining popularity - and I'm here for it.
There's something special about making an intentional effort to use your imagination, be creative and find ways to be more lighthearted and perhaps even silly. This is especially true given that it seems to be getting progressively harder to find positivity and joy amid ongoing challenging global events and political change. Yes - in the midst of all this, it's good to be silly, and it's powerful to find new ways to put a smile on your face or other people's faces.
Here are some ways that I've begun to channel my inner child and reconnect with playfulness through whimsical practices.
Get creative.
Whether returning to an artistic hobby that you used to love, going to the back of the closet to find that half-knitted scarf or trying something completely new, getting creative is a wonderful way to add whimsy to life.
Over the years, I've tried so many different artistic hobbies and creative ventures, but most of the time, they get abandoned quickly. However, recently, I started getting inspired by beading projects on Pinterest, and something just clicked. So far, I've made beaded plants, many bag charms (which make great gifts), and I'm working on a beaded curtain for my living room.
Now, beading might not be for you, but I can assure you that there's something out there that will just click. And when it does, it will feel satisfying and exciting - and maybe even addicting (not me accidentally beading until 2 a.m. …). If you're unsure of what to try out, use Pinterest or look up craft-related reels on Instagram (or other social media) for inspiration - it's awesome to see what other people are doing so that you can choose something and put your own spin on it.
Modify clothing you already have.
Not only is modifying old clothing in the back of your closet a way to reduce fast fashion and be more sustainable, but it's also a way to add whimsy to your wardrobe.
For example, sew different buttons on a cardigan to give it new character, use fabric scissors to cut your shirt into a new shape or add sequins, lace or beads to a coat or jacket. Take accessories you don't wear anymore and give them a new purpose, like using a brooch as a bag charm attached to your backpack.
Add personality to your living space.
Whether you're living on or off campus, adding new items or decorating your space can really brighten up your life. One of my favourite summer activities is exploring thrift stores and garage sales to look for items that add more colour and life to my space - it's inexpensive and fun!
Adding whimsy really just means choosing items that make you smile. Maybe it's a tiny ceramic frog to put on your windowsill, a new bedazzled plant pot to put your succulent in or a quilted floral pillowcase - find your own unique style, colour scheme, and flavour for whatever items you choose.
Customizing items you already own is another way to do this. Bedazzle an item, paint an accent wall, use colourful wall stickers or turn any item into a disco ball with mirror stickers from Dollarama.
Write a sidequest list.
Sidequesting is all about finding spontaneous detours, following impulses or completing a random activity that pulls you away from your typical routine. Completing sidequests, not just in video games, but in real life, is a way to add whimsy.
Start by writing a list of little sidequests on individual pieces of paper and putting them in a jar - draw a sidequest every two weeks or once a month (whatever frequency you prefer) and complete the mission.
Some example sidequests could be:
- explore a street that you've never walked down and pick out your favourite houses or buildings
- walk in the river valley and find a beautiful leaf to press and dry out
- buy an ingredient you've never tried before and cook a meal with it
- write cheerful messages in chalk on a public sidewalk for those who pass by to enjoy
Overall, adding whimsy to your life can be as simple as being unapologetic about silly things that you love and trying new things that are out of the ordinary for your routines.
Be playful, lighthearted, and find what makes you smile - even if it means accidentally beading until 2 a.m.
