Last weekend, I did something just for me. It wasn’t logical. It wasn’t sensible. It wasn’t cheap. But it made me incredibly happy. And honestly, that’s the whole point.

A few weeks ago, I found myself gutted at the idea of missing out on something special. Oasis at Wembley Stadium. My favourite band. One of the greatest venues in the world. A once-in-a-lifetime experience. I wasn’t planning on going. I hadn’t got a ticket. Part of me thought I’d have to let it pass me by.

But then I thought, why not? Why shouldn’t I just do the thing that would make me happy?

So, I did. I paid (probably more than I should have) for a ticket, made my way to Wembley, and stood on the pitch as Oasis delivered the best gig I’ve ever experienced in my life. I’ve got absolutely zero regrets. In fact, I came away with memories I’ll hold onto forever. That one choice, that one decision to do something purely for myself, lifted me in a way I didn’t expect.

We often think doing something just for ourselves is selfish. That we should put others first, be responsible, be sensible. But the truth is, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Making time for joy, for pleasure, for experiences that light you up, isn’t selfish. It’s essential.

When we prioritise our own happiness, we build resilience, energy, and a stronger sense of self. Research in positive psychology shows that pursuing activities that bring us joy contributes to lower levels of stress, improved mental health, and greater life satisfaction. And doing what makes you happy doesn’t always have to be big or expensive. Sure, I went to a major gig in a huge stadium, and that was special. But happiness can also come from the small things. Listening to your favourite song on a walk, grabbing a coffee and watching the world go by, reading a good book in peace. It’s about intentionally making space for things that bring you joy, no matter how simple.

According to the World Health Organization, mental wellbeing is a state in which we realise our own potential, cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively and contribute to the community. Doing things that make us happy supports all of this. Studies show that people who regularly engage in enjoyable activities experience reduced cortisol levels, improved sleep quality, greater emotional resilience, and stronger relationships thanks to a more positive mindset.

One study published in the Journal of Health Psychology even found that regular leisure activities are linked to lower blood pressure, reduced waist circumference, healthier body mass index, and lower stress hormone levels. That means your body actually benefits when your mind is happy.

It can feel indulgent to spend time or money on something that’s just for you. I felt that initial hesitation myself. But looking back, I’m so glad I didn’t let guilt or doubt hold me back. Standing on the pitch at Wembley Stadium, watching Oasis, my favourite band ever, play live was emotional. Euphoric. A dream come true. The kind of thing I’ll talk about for the rest of my life. And the joy I felt in that moment has stayed with me. I feel lighter. Happier. More connected to who I am.

Sometimes you just need to give yourself permission to go after the thing you know will make you feel alive.

Everyone’s version of happiness is different. For some, it’s music. For others, it’s nature, art, exercise, cooking, travel, or just a moment of peace in a busy world. So I’ll ask you this. When was the last time you did something just because it made you happy? Not because it was productive. Not because someone else wanted you to. But because you did.

If you’re struggling to remember, maybe it’s time to change that.

Doing what makes you happy isn’t about ignoring responsibilities or chasing constant pleasure. It’s about making space for the things that remind you who you are. The things that give you joy, energy, peace or passion.

Happiness isn’t a luxury. It’s part of your wellbeing. And it deserves your attention.

Whether it’s a gig at Wembley, a walk in the woods, or half an hour with a cup of tea and your favourite podcast, do the thing. Make yourself happy. No regrets.

Your future self will thank you for it.