PAYDAY: 8 ways to have fun without straining your pocket

PayDay is in three days and many people are already making plans to save, invest and grow wealth. However, some would end up singing Timaya’s “In this life, I can’t kill myself, Allow me to flex o” once they receive their paycheck. They are not wrong for seeking fun.

The desire to enjoy life is a valid one because we all have got just one life to live, and there is no better time to experience the fullness of that life than when one still has it.

Psychologists say not taking out time to relax can lead to burnout and many health problems.

“Stress is linked to the six leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer, lung ailments, accidents, cirrhosis of the liver, and suicide,” according to a 2019 blog post by US-based Psych Central, an independent mental health social network.

The mind experts say having fun can help reduce stress level and makes one more productive at work.

While reckless spending is not encouraged, there should always be a provision in your budget for you and your loved ones to take time off your routine and enjoy some luxuries of life.

If you love cp thrills-like many Nigerians do- below are a few budget-friendly suggestions that will allow you to flex and how much they cost on the average.

Go on Picnics (N2000-N5000):

 A picnic is one way to hang out with those you care about without spending more than you plan to because you can make the food, snacks and drinks you need at home thereby saving cost.

Picnics allow you to enjoy the serenity of nature, whether it is a garden, lakeside or a highland that you plan on visiting.

If you stay in Lagos, picnics are a perfect get-away from the crazy traffic and noisy streets. There are several parks you can visit with your friends and family including the Freedom Park, Lekki Conservation Centre, Lufasi Park, Lagoon Front and the likes.

 Host Movie Nights instead of going to the Cinema (N0-N2000): 

 Ultra-savers can set up movie nights with friends and have the same feel as going to the cinema with the advantage of spending virtually nothing.

To maximize the experience, you can do some desktop research on the latest movies or decide on the movie to see with the person you are inviting over.

You can download movies on dedicated websites that legally allow you to or subscribe to streaming services like Netflix.

You may want to ensure you have a good sound system and some popcorn, drinks or snacks within reach. You could also use a projector to create a truly cinematic feel.

 Visit the beach (N2000-N4000):

 If you love the feel of sand under your feet, sun over your head and the cool sea breeze on your skin then the beach is one place you should visit for relaxation.

It does not cost much to visit the beach; gate fee is usually less than N1000 per head and you can ride horses for around N500.

If you are brave, you can also swim in the Atlantic Ocean or allow its wave wash over you.

Popular beaches in Lagos include Oniru, Tarkwa Bay, Barracuda, Elegushi, Atican Beach Resort, Eleko and so on.

Window shopping at the mall (N0-N1500):

It is free to look at goods displayed in shop windows without buying any, and it is also legal.

Looking at the different colours, designs and models of various items on display can be mentally satisfying and inspiring too. Window shopping is also an avenue to exercise your body and take your mind off the daunting tasks waiting for you at the office.

Whenever you get tired of moving around, you can also take a break at any of the eateries in the mall to refuel and take selfies.

Volunteer for something you enjoy (N0): 

Volunteering for a cause you are passionate about or for activities you enjoy can be a great way to have fun without spending.

Take for instance Sarah, a software engineer at a firm in Abuja where she works almost 60 hours a week.

Sarah is very passionate about dancing but she hates dancing alone. She also thinks clubbing every week is a waste of hard-earned money. To manage cost Sarah volunteers to teach at a dance club where she can live out her passion.

Joining clubs, societies and outreaches that engage in activities you enjoy can be another avenue for you to socialize and meet more people.

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 Explore your city- its art and culture (N1000-N5,000):

Having fun does not mean doing anything in particular- taking a ride around your city can be as thrilling as being on a roller coaster.

Take a bus, a bicycle or your car around town and learn new places, interact with strangers and take photographs.

You can visit monuments, arts and culture hotspots like Muson, the New Afrika Shrine, and the national museum if you are in Lagos.

It does not cost much to visit these places but ensure you have extra cash in case you have to pay gate fees.

 

Watch football at good viewing centre (N1000):

For football fans and fanatics, weekends offer an opportunity to wear your club jersey and troll rivals, if you have bragging rights.

Instead of seeing the games at home, you can instead visit a nice football viewing centre and join the frenzy for less than N1000, which covers drinks and sometimes, snacks.

Start sporting activities at home (N0):

For those averse to gym (and similar) membership fees, starting a gym at home is also a good way to keep both your body and wallet fit.

You just need to get the basic gym equipment and get the best tutorials online to do-it-yourself like a pro. There is a need for caution however if you are not familiar with gym gadgets.

The same applies to other sporting activities like joining a local football club that meets only on weekends.