Funding Your Fun: Why You Need a “Fun Fund” and How to Make It Happen

Let’s be honest—fun is often the first thing to fall off the priority list when life gets busy. Between work, family responsibilities, ageing parents, and the endless cycle of bills and obligations, many women find themselves stuck in the sandwich generation—constantly giving but rarely receiving. The result? Burnout. Disconnection. And a nagging feeling that you’ve lost touch with what lights you up.

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to stay stuck there.

In this week’s Money with Alpha episode, we’re reminded of something powerful: fun isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. And not just emotionally—it deserves a place in your budget, too.

Why We Neglect Fun

We often associate fun with time and money—two things that always seem in short supply. But the real issue goes deeper. As we get older and take on more responsibilities, we unconsciously deprioritize ourselves. The needs of others—children, partners, parents, clients—take over. And slowly, fun becomes something we used to do.

But here’s the truth: fun doesn’t just “happen.” It has to be planned, protected, and yes—funded.

Reclaiming Fun (Without the Guilt)

If it’s been so long that you don’t even know what you enjoy anymore, start small. Think back to what you used to love. Was it dancing? Crafting? Driving to a quiet spot with a good book? Your version of fun is uniquely yours. Write it down. Make a list. Ask yourself: “How often do I actually make time for these things?”

Spoiler: no one is going to give you the time. You have to take it.

And if your fun comes with a price tag—like travel, events, or creative hobbies—it’s time to create a “Fun Fund.”

How to Create a Fun Fund

1. Get Clear on What Fun Looks Like for You
   This isn’t about what’s trendy or Instagrammable. It’s about what recharges you.

2. Review Your Cash Flow
   Look at your current budget and ask: “Where is my money going now? Can I adjust a few categories to make room for fun?”

3. Assign It a Slice of Your Money Pie
   If you use a budgeting tool or visual system, create a separate category for fun. This way, you can see that the money is meant to be spent. No guilt allowed.

4. Give Yourself Permission to Use It
   Your Fun Fund is not a backup emergency account. It’s not your retirement savings. It’s money you’re meant to enjoy. Use it.

5. Be Intentional with Big-Ticket Fun
   Want to plan a special holiday or bucket-list experience? Price it out and build it into your cash flow forecast. You can stretch for something meaningful if you plan ahead.

The Bottom Line

When you intentionally schedule fun—and budget for it—you reconnect with joy, nourish your energy, and create something to look forward to. You deserve more than survival mode. You deserve joy, laughter, and memories that make life rich.

So go ahead: fund your fun. Your future self will thank you.