Column in Uncover Magazine - Meaningful Leisure Experiences

This article was written for Uncover magazine - Meaningful Leisure Experiences. 

Meaningful leisure
The meaning attached to leisure is highly individualised. For some, leisure serves primarily as a form of escapism or hedonistic pleasure - a necessary retreat from the demands and stresses of everyday life. For these individuals, the purpose of leisure lies in its capacity to recharge emotional and mental reserves, offering moments of temporary relief and rejuvenation. Importantly, the experience of leisure in this sense transcends socio-economic status; it is neither confined to nor dictated by the amount of wealth or material resources an individual possesses. Whether in affluent societies or among less privileged communities, leisure functions as a universal human need, manifesting across all social classes and geographic regions.

Conversely, there exists a perspective that associates leisure with deeper, more purpose-driven experiences. For many, leisure activities gain significance when they are connected to personal growth, social contribution, or broader societal impact. Examples of such meaningful leisure include volunteering, participating in environmental conservation activities, or engaging in cultural and educational pursuits that enrich both the individual and the community. Again, this form of purposeful leisure is not restricted by economic standing and is observed globally across various demographic groups.

Given these differing perceptions, a central question emerges: what factors contribute to our experience of leisure as meaningful, and to what extent is such meaningfulness necessary or desirable? While some theorists and practitioners argue that leisure should contribute to the betterment of the individual and society, it is equally important to recognise the intrinsic value of leisure pursued for its own sake. Simple enjoyment, without any ulterior purpose beyond personal satisfaction, can be profoundly beneficial for mental health, creativity, and overall well-being.

A balanced approach 
Thus, it seems reasonable to advocate a balanced approach that acknowledges the importance of both types of leisure experiences. At one end of the spectrum, there are individuals and groups who view leisure primarily through the lens of activism and social transformation. For them, leisure activities are valuable insofar as they contribute to systemic change and the promotion of social justice. At the opposite end are those who embrace leisure as the ultimate form of escapism - a deliberate detachment from social responsibilities and a pursuit of personal pleasure without broader social implications. 

Finding a middle ground between these extremes appears to be a pragmatic and inclusive solution. A balanced perspective allows for leisure experiences that are simultaneously enjoyable and meaningful, supporting both personal fulfilment and societal progress. It encourages individuals to seek leisure activities that not only bring them happiness but also contribute, even in minor ways, to the greater good.

This balanced approach can also be applied to the leisure industry itself. Organisations within the sector face a similar dichotomy: should they prioritise generating social impact through their services, or should they focus primarily on maximising shareholder value and commercial success? Here again, striving for equilibrium offers a compelling strategy. Leisure enterprises that root their business models in both social responsibility and economic viability are likely to appeal to a broader audience. Consumers increasingly seek out brands and experiences that align with their personal values, suggesting that companies can achieve sustainable success by integrating meaningfulness into their core operations without sacrificing profitability.

In conclusion, the conceptualisation of leisure as either a means to an end or an end in itself is not a binary choice but rather a continuum along which individuals and organisations can position themselves. Recognising and respecting the diversity of leisure experiences - ranging from purely pleasurable to deeply purposeful - allows for a more inclusive and dynamic understanding of leisure in contemporary society. By embracing a balanced approach, both individuals and the leisure industry can foster environments where leisure activities contribute to personal well-being, social cohesion, and collective progress.

Contribution to education and research
My final thought considers the potential contribution of the presented idea to both education and research. Internationalisation has long been a foundational pillar of Breda University of Applied Sciences, by engaging in transnational networks (e.g. KreativEU) that emphasise a European focus while maintaining a global outlook. In the current geopolitical climate, Europe plays a central role in global affairs, which in turn shapes the perspectives of European citizens - particularly in relation to leisure consumption. Anecdotal evidence suggests a growing preference among European consumers for purchasing regionally produced goods and spending holidays within the continent. This emerging trend positions European leisure not only as a form of recreation but also as a symbolic expression of cultural heritage and geopolitical identity.

This intersection of leisure, culture, and geopolitics presents a compelling avenue for classroom discussion and scholarly inquiry. Engaging students with these kinds of themes offers an opportunity to develop their critical thinking skills and their ability to navigate and appreciate complex, nuanced perspectives, their identity - competencies essential to their future professional endeavours. In this context, educators and researchers are encouraged to explore how we can create meaningful experiences in education with both leisure as a means and as an end.