Approaches to the Use of Leisure

For those who choose to use leisure in a wholesome and constructive manner, several approaches may be considered for spending free-time wisely. They are listed below in random order.

(1) Involvement in self-directed activities; or involvement in activities programmed by someone else
(2) Participating directly in activities; or participating as a spectator
(3) Participating in activities alone; or participating with others
(4) Involvement in activities as a service to others; or involvement for personal pleasure
(5) Doing things for which there is a cost; or doing things which are totally free of any cost
(6) Taking part in new activities; or taking part in activities which have been done before
(7) Involvement in activities which are active; or involvement in activities which are passive

Obviously, an individual might choose an activity which includes more than one of the approaches mentioned above. For example, deciding to play tennis with a friend after work would include the following: the activity is self-directed; the activity involves direct participation; the activity involves participating with someone else; the activity will be done for personal pleasure; there is no ticket to buy in order to do the activity; taking part in tennis is an activity that both participants have done previously; and involvement in the activity is - by all means - active participation.

The important thing for us to remember is to make wise choices with the free time which comes to us. Leisure is a gift of time! We need to use it wisely.