Reliving what I enjoyed as a Kid to add Happiness to the Present

We all remember those fun things we used to enjoy as a kid. Whether it be watching our favorite TV shows, playing an awesome video game, or simply going outside to play in the backyard with family and friends. As I grew older, I noticed I spend time doing less of most of these things as I learned that adults only did specific things which mainly involved working at a job, doing chores, and raising kids. However, I realized that subtracting a lot of my childhood joys has caused me to lose a lot of happiness and satisfaction with the life I currently live. I wanted to make a change and I noticed a lot of people want to also.

Recognition
A lot of my childhood was spent playing video games, playing with toys specifically Legos, filming random videos for Youtube, and just plain going outside to play fantasy games with people such as tag or fake shooters. I would also occasionally play Basketball. I want to do more of these activities even though I'm older. If a younger version of myself met up with me today, what would he ask me? Wouldn't he be proud if I turned those fun childhood activities into something I enjoy in the present adding more value and happiness to my life? These are some of the questions I asked myself while pondering how to bring these thoughts to life. Try asking yourself similar questions and see what answers you may come up with.

Incorporation
During these coronavirus times, I realized it would be harder than ever to try and add activities such as playing outside or basketball to my life so I did the next best thing. Going outside for jogging around my area and playing a soccer game (my interests in sports changed as I grew older). Next, video games and filming videos was another big activity i wanted to add on. I ended up creating a Youtube channel and getting game capture software so I can make random videos of me playing the games so I can edit and upload them. For social contact, this was the most difficult because most people can't just go outside and instantly play with friends. I found myself calling or just focusing on myself and small personal improvements to try and accomplish this.

Balance
As an adult, it is not possible to incorporate all these activities each day so I do my best to spread them out or schedule them in the week to ensure that I maintain a healthy work life balance. I plan my study time and work time. Business meetings are also scheduled ahead of time and I don't let other people take my time away from me. Emails are a big one here; I find myself easily distracted and reactive to every email hitting in my inbox. This is why I activated a morning do not disturb (DND) mode.

Conclusion
The moral of these changes is to guard your time to prioritize yourself and your happiness. Meditate on the times you feel most productive or in the zone. Optimize your calendar towards your needs and don't let people steal your time from you if it sucks away your plans for the day. A childhood version of you would most likely be proud of you regardless, as long as you did your best to live your happiest and most fulfilled life.

I hope you find something helpful here.