Find out why embracing curiosity and joy can boost your emotional, social and creative wellbeing
Panicked 4am study sessions, looming essay deadlines, algebra tests…do memories of your school days feel like scenes from a scary movie?
We get it, but learning as an adult doesn’t have to be stressful or intimidating. At City Lit, we believe it should spark curiosity, creativity and connection, which is why our courses are designed to be hands-on and fun. Whether you're painting, performing, writing, or exploring wellbeing, we want you to have a good time first and foremost.
Prioritising fun isn’t frivolous — adding a little bit of extra joy to your week can actually be life-changing. That’s because spontaneity and play can benefit us in many ways, including emotionally, socially and creatively. So let’s look at a few good reasons why you should get serious about having fun with learning.
Having fun with learning — emotional benefits
Rekindling your curiosity and joy
Let’s be honest, life can feel a bit beige at times. It’s easy to find yourself stuck on the gerbil wheel of routine and lose your sense of adventure. Yet whether it’s salsa or shiatsu, learning something new can spark excitement about the world again. There’s a real joy in returning to that childlike experience of being a beginner.
Increasing your confidence
Confidence isn’t some innate gift bestowed upon a lucky few; it’s something you can build and develop. Learning a new skill and watching your progress unfold is a great way of reminding yourself that you’re capable of much more than you think. It doesn’t matter if it’s jewellery making or jiving, giving yourself a push to try something new will boost your self-esteem and self-belief.
Accessing the flow state
Ever noticed that when you’re really absorbed in an activity like painting, playing guitar or practising pilates, an hour can pass by in what feels like minutes? This is known as the ‘flow state’ — the mental space you enter into when you’re deeply immersed in a pursuit. What’s more, entering into the flow state is great for your mental health as it boosts dopamine and serotonin, which enhance feelings of calm and wellbeing. Signing up for a college course is a great way to find new interests to lose yourself in.
Having fun while learning — social benefits
Making new friends
Having a good time with others is the fastest way to bond, whether that’s practising jazz hands at a Charleston class or making a beautiful mess at the pottery wheel. Learning something new can boost your social life and even lead to new collaborations. For instance, some of our art graduates have formed a thriving creative collective, while our writing students enjoy showcasing their work at our Late Lines events.
Increasing your empathy
Starting a course gives you the chance to mingle with people who’ve had a range of life experiences and can offer fresh perspectives. Learning with others lets you see the world through their eyes and opens up new discussions, increasing your empathy and understanding.
Embracing collaboration and teamwork
What could be more fun than teaming up with fellow musicians to form a jazz band? Or collaborating on a short film? Or experiencing that lightning-in-a-bottle feeling of a theatre show coming together? Learning doesn’t have to be a solo gig — often, it’s a lot more rewarding when you do it in a group.
Having fun while learning — creative benefits
Getting fresh inspiration
When you’re stuck in your daily routine, conjuring up new ideas can be hard. Sometimes, we need fresh sources of inspiration to kickstart our creativity. Taking a course in art, music, theatre, film, or writing opens the door to a gold mine of ideas. When you surround yourself with like-minded people on a similar journey, magic starts to happen.
Finding the courage to experiment
Ever noticed that when you feel safe to take risks, you’re more creative and innovative? That’s why we’ve created a supportive learning atmosphere where everyone is valued. We know it can be tough to break out of your comfort zone, but encouragement from tutors and classmates makes all the difference. Having cheerleaders behind you gives you the courage to let go, have fun and immerse yourself in creative play.
Restoring your sense of wonder
The creative process is a mysterious thing — it’s impossible to pin down or tame, which is why engaging with it can restore our sense of wonder and awe. Exploring your creativity reminds you that the world is brimming with fresh possibilities and that you have untapped potential waiting to be discovered. Who knows where it will lead you?
Find your joy on a City Lit course
If you want to have a good time while learning then City Lit is the place for you. Get messy and take risks in our Art & Design studios, or step into the spotlight on a Performing Arts course. Craft new characters and worlds at a writing workshop, or find calm and camaraderie on a Health & Wellbeing course. Or if you'd like to take your curiosity for a ride, explore our Weird & Wonderful courses.
Join City Lit
Ready to have fun with learning at City Lit? Find a course that sparks joy, either in London or online.
