For many in the UK, the default formula for an evening's entertainment is well-trodden: dinner, drinks, and the inevitable risk of one too many. But what if there was a more fulfilling blueprint for fun? Experts in behavioural science and wellbeing are now advocating for a shift towards more active and challenging experiences, suggesting they offer a deeper, more lasting sense of joy than passive consumption.
Rethinking Fun: From Passive Consumption to Active Engagement
The revelation that "wine wasn't central to the evening" during a lino-printing workshop highlights a growing trend. Participants found satisfaction not in a glass, but in the focused creation of art, from pomegranates to anime characters. This contrasts sharply with the often hollow post-pub feeling, prompting a search for more meaningful ways to unwind.
Dr Michael Plant, a research fellow at the University of Oxford’s Wellbeing Research Centre, points to a common human error known as "miswanting"—where we incorrectly predict what will make us happy. "We're often wrong about what will make us happy, so we go after the wrong things," he explains. This is why trying something new can lead to such pleasant surprises.
Holistic health coach Sally Dibden suggests starting not with an activity, but with a desired feeling. "Ask yourself how you would align an evening out from the feeling you want to generate," she advises. Whether it's seeking connection after a day working from home, or craving solitude from a hectic social calendar, defining the objective is key.
The Science of a Memorable Evening
Behavioural scientist Jon Levy introduces a crucial distinction, citing game creator Elan Lee: successful activities aren't just fun, they "make the players fun." Passive entertainment like films or comedy shows might be easy, but Levy argues that effort and a degree of discomfort are often preferable for a exceptional experience.
He references the "Ikea effect"—the idea that we value things more when we invest effort in them, like assembling flat-pack furniture. This principle applies to social experiences too. Activities like karaoke, where vulnerability is required to hit the high notes, can foster greater trust and connection. "You're doing something that makes you a little uncomfortable and that's healthy," Levy notes.
Stepping out of your comfort zone doesn't require a microphone, however. It can be as simple as visiting a new location to break familiar patterns, or setting a personal challenge like performing three acts of kindness in an evening.
Connection, Nature and the Joy of Imperfection
Social interaction remains a cornerstone of wellbeing. Professor Gillian Sandstrom of the University of Sussex highlights research showing that both the quality and diversity of our conversations boost happiness. Her work on "weak tie" connections—brief chats with strangers or acquaintances—shows clear mental health benefits.
Dr Dan Weijers, co-editor of the International Journal of Wellbeing, suggests weaving nature into plans. Combining the proven benefits of the outdoors with exercise and socialising creates a powerful wellbeing cocktail. Associate professor Holli-Anne Passmore clarifies this doesn't demand a wilderness trek; even noticing a tree on a city street can boost feelings of "transcendent connectedness" and "elevation".
Finally, experts caution against chasing perfection. Meik Wiking of the Happiness Research Institute recalls the "Great Sausage Disaster of 2015," a culinary failure that became a cherished memory. Dibden agrees: "'Perfect' doesn't exist." Dr Plant recommends framing any night out as an experiment. That way, you either have a good time or you learn what you don't like, making the next attempt more informed and potentially more rewarding.
