It is a brand-new year, so why not start on the right foot and explore new hobbies? New hobbies can be both exciting and inspiring. Here are some tips to get started.
Diverse hobby ideas. Creative and varied hobbies improve well-being and can spark interest in future employers. Creative traditional hobbies include arts and crafts, sports and working out, cooking, and music. Since the pandemic, many have picked up on cooking and baking since most restaurants were closed, and they fear getting sick. Try a particular baking or cooking technique, such as bread-making or brewing beer. Of course, this all depends on what the budget will allow. If the arts are more of a calling, try something you can display at home and be proud of or sell at an arts and crafts show, such as paintings, sewing or wood burning. Nowadays, many video games are on PS5s or Xbox, but consider trying a new game to meet another realm of squad mates.
Identify personal interests. Identify interests and passions to help you choose a hobby that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle. You obviously wouldn’t want to start up rock climbing if you have acrophobia—fear of heights. Of course, if you want to push yourself to the limit, this might be something to start up. Just be sure you are with someone else in case of a severe panic attack.
Start simple. Start small with manageable activities, especially if you are new to a hobby. When most people start the new year with “new me” and new gym habits, do not overdo anything that will lead to burnout and, worse, injuries. Starting simple with a hobby can boost confidence and motivation. To be craftier with art, begin by taking up adult coloring books or sketching. Then, once you have accomplished one masterpiece, do another, but use a different medium. This way, you can learn what works and what doesn’t and are not stuck with many paints and supplies that will go to waste.
Benefits of trying new hobbies. Connecting with your passions and hobbies is essential for overall well-being and happiness. Adopting new hobbies has many positive impacts, including stress relief, enhanced creativity, personal satisfaction and the potential for meeting new people. For example, yoga and deep meditations are known to reduce stress healthily, whereas playing a new song on the guitar will give much personal satisfaction. Check out local open mic nights, which are great opportunities to perform and meet new people.
Resources and communities. There are several online communities or local groups that you can learn more about and engage in your chosen hobby. If gardening is something you wish to start up in the spring, join some online groups on Facebook so you can start to learn what works and what doesn’t. Many people will write in there what they plan to grow next year, and some will offer tips and tricks. This fosters a sense of community and support. Just remember to be respectful and keep the golden rule in mind to treat others as you would want to be treated.
Work-life balance. When work starts to pile up, incorporate some strategies so your new hobby will maintain a healthy work-life balance. Schedule regular time for hobbies, such as a weekly class or a recurring time slot. Make hobbies portable. For example, if you enjoy photography, take your camera on your daily commute to work and snap photos of interesting things you see.
We hope this has motivated you to step outside your comfort zone and embark on a journey of self-discovery through new and satisfying activities in the coming year.
