Master the art of spontaneity: Live free and easy

Have you ever wanted to return to the spontaneity and naturalness of childhood? Or, to eliminate the stress and pressures you feel in daily life, and enjoy the freedom and relaxation of a person on vacation?

Now you can by learning how to master the Art of Spontaneity; letting go of the need to overcontrol and overschedule everything; enjoying a psychologically carefree existence while meeting your obligations and commitments. When you are spontaneous, you are lighter, freer, more joyful, and more creative. Life doesn’t seem like such a burden; you enjoy everything you do a lot more. You also work better under pressure, and get more things done because you are not hampered by excessive anxiety, worry, and doubt.

Here are some ways to be more spontaneous in your daily life:

*Practice the Paradox of Control and Letting Go: An intelligently spontaneous person knows when to maintain control—they are not impulsive or compulsive—they can maintain discipline to get the important things done. At the same time, they are able to let go of worries about the things they can’t control, and are able to enjoy the present moment without excessive concerns for how things will turn out.

*Be Aware of Your Daily Routines: Keep a daily journal (electronic or paper), and write down the things you do during the day (what and where you eat; what clothes you wear, who you talk to and what you say). You will find that much of your life is ordinary and repetitive routine. Although some routine is good and provides security, spontaneity means doing something differently, fun, novel, and exciting. Trying a new restaurant or food, going to work in a different route, making love in a new way, talking to people you would normally not talk to. Experiment with being spontaneous and trying new things; it will bring a spark and joy to your life.

*Play daily: Observe how children and animals play. They are immersed in the moment and nothing else matters. In the same way, play with animals or children, or even your adult friends (word games, board games, even child games like hide and seek, and tag).

*Practice saying “Yes.” In improvisational act (spontaneity

exercises for actors), the word “Yes,” is used to move a story or skit along. When you say, “Yes and,” you build on a story, instead of negating it by saying “No.” In your life, look for opportunities to say “Yes” to new experiences, people, activities, or adventures. Although the word “No” can be a powerful ally in stopping bad things in your life, the word “Yes,” said in the right circumstances, can open up many wonderful doors of life experience. Say “Yes” to finding love, starting your dream business or career, going on the travel adventure you’ve always wanted, making a change in your personal habits (getting in shape, learning a new mental or physical skill).

*Associate with Spontaneous Friends: Surround yourself with friends and acquaintances who are fun-loving, free-spirited, and spontaneous. Although you may not want to live with them or marry them (especially if you are a more structured personality), they can be good to have around at certain times when you want to let your wild, free, and fun side out: Try parachuting, bungee jumping, an exotic restaurant; learn a new dance, travel to an exotic location, meet new people at a social event.

*Keep a Spontaneity Journal: In your tablet or notebook, write down the spontaneous things you would like to try some day, whether related to a new hobby or interest (marathon running, hiking, learning a language, playing a musical instrument) or experience (traveling, meeting new people, learning something new). Decide that you will periodically reach into your list and pick one spontaneous thing to try by yourself or with a loved one. Record the experience with words, pictures, and even music, and you will have a great remembrance of your spontaneous experience that will enliven and motivate you toward more spontaneous and fun experiences.

You only have one life. Don’t allow yourself to be stuck in the mud of predictability, routine, and boredom. Although many of us value security and consistency in our lives, the spontaneous part of you can enliven and uplift your mood and bring you a sense of consistent happiness. When you are intelligently and naturally spontaneous, life is richer, and your relationships become fuller. You recognize that the most important thing in life is to love and express your true authenticity to the world.

For more on how to Master the Art of Spontaneity, tune into our latest podcast; “Master the Art of Spontaneity