A goofy squirrel has the sensibility to not take life too seriously. Choose to sprinkle your life with goofiness to bring joy to both yourself and others. I mean after all, if a squirrel can do it...
When is the last time you have done something 100%, categorically goofy? And by goofy I don’t mean clumsy or embarrassing. I mean something playful, something out of the norm, and done solely for the sheer fun of it.
If you are struggling to think of something that qualifies—it’s been too long.
Let me tell you about a squirrel, the particular one in this picture. My daughter and I were at the Atlanta History Center one day, and this squirrel was relatively close and striking what could only be described as a typical squirrel pose. I pulled out my phone to get a statuesque image of this very dignified squirrel. However, as soon as I had phone in hand, camera ready, and zoom on—he promptly laid down. Laid down on the top of the fence... spread-eagled. In squirrel language, it was completely goofy. I mean, how often so you see squirrels loosen their guard and just let it all hang out?
Not very often.
Adulthood is a fair comparison. For the most part we are responsible, care about our image or reputation, and take on the serious matters of our generation. Of course, we build in the fun parts too. After all, ‘all work and no play’ doesn’t exactly keep our cups running over and our energy stores at full capacity.
But there is a difference between having fun and being goofy.
Childhood is full of goofiness. And really in hindsight, that is what we fondly recall. We all did things as kids no one would believe we did then. But you know what? It was worth it! We experienced life to the fullest.
I’m going to let you in on a little secret. Embrace being goofy as an adult every now and again. Bring back the magic of being footloose and fancy free.
Need some ideas to get you started?
When was the last time you:
Danced in the rain?
Had a food fight?
Made a pillow fort?
Used sheets to make a tent (inside)?
Told ghost stories?
Pretended the floor was lava?
Used balloons to play volleyball?
We do not have to relegate these things to the past. A squad of goofiness regulators are not hot on our trail to ensure we stay straitlaced all the time.
Embrace your goofiness and feel the joy that rises from deep within. Once you do, you will find it is incredibly contagious. I mean really, who would not want to do any of these things if someone else asked or initiated them? (Ok, maybe don’t start a food fight if your partner is dressed in their favorite outfit—but other than THAT…)
Life is joyful. Remember the goofy things and sprinkle them over the course of your life. Don’t spend another minute being the person that always has it together. Loosen up and be a goofiness ambassador.
Balloon volleyball in the conference room? I’d be game.
I think the squirrel might join as well.
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