Andy’s Quick Hits (71): All Work And No Play…Increases Stress and Decreases Happiness

We all know the old saying of “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” often used to recommend easing up a little. Research, hot off the presses, has not only proven this, but shown that for a healthy life it is actual very important advice to follow.

This was shown in a series of studies by researchers around Gabriela Tonietto of Ohio State University measuring a common belief in modern society that productivity is the ultimate goal and you’re just wasting time if you’re having fun. Those who most strongly agreed with this belief enjoyed leisure less (not surprisingly), but also showed poorer mental health levels.

Think leisure is a waste? That may not bode well for your mental health

For example in one study of 199 college students they were asked how much they agreed with five statements such as: “Time spent on leisure activities is often wasted time”. Those who reported leisure time as more wasteful enjoyed leisure time less. So far nothing unusual but we could just ascribe this to personality. “Some like this leisure stuff, others don’t”.