To be truly happy we need some type of entertainment in our lives. We've all heard the old proverb, "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy". We all tend to concentrate so much on our work and responsibilities, that we neglect the fun and entertaining part of life. Even when we set aside the time to spend with our loved ones, we often don't have the frame of mind to enjoy ourselves. Have you ever been watching a movie and have your mind float back to an issue at work? I sure have. Or even worse than that, I have put off spending time with my friends and family (even if only a small amount of time is needed) to accomplish a work task. To ensure we have a healthy, happy, and balanced life, we need to make the most of the time we have and the opportunities around us and spend them with those we love.

Don't forget to care for yourself. If you need to spend some time alone, that can be just as important to your health and happiness. If you need some quiet time in a bubble bath, with a favorite book, or to walk around a garden with just your camera, then invest that time in yourself. Just as they say when we get on an airplane, put on your own oxygen mask before you put one on your child. There are times when we need to take care of ourselves so we can fully enjoy time with those we care about most. We need to take care of ourselves so we can successfully help and be there for those we care about the most.

It doesn't matter if you enjoy being in a large group of friends and/or family, with just a few people or by yourself. Browse the following list of frugal entertainment idea categories, or use them for inspiration to think outside the box and develop your own. We all work very hard and deserve to enjoy life also.