Are you feeling stuck in a never-ending cycle of monotony? Are your days a blend of endless work with hardly a spark of joy? Ever find yourself yearning for a fresh and easy escape from the daily grind? If you’re nodding along, it’s time to consider the joy and fulfilment that come with discovering a hobby.
Now, when I say “hobby,” I don’t mean lying in bed and rotting all day on TikTok and Instagram or watching Netflix until you pass out. We’ve all been there, and you certainly don’t need a preacher to tell you that’s not a healthy way to use your free time. We can all use a little less screen time, but I digress. Having a hobby, or rather, finding productive ways to pass the time, fills in the gap and allows you to find little pockets of joy in mundane things.
Why do you need to have a hobby?
Having a hobby can benefit people with hectic schedules, especially when breaking the routine cycle. According to a study by UCL researchers, having a hobby is linked to a subsequent decrease in depressive symptoms and increases in happiness and life satisfaction. Here are a few more benefits of having a hobby.
Stress Relief
Engaging in a hobby can provide a much-needed break from the stresses and pressures of daily life. It allows you to unwind, relax, and recharge, ultimately improving your overall well-being.
Personal Growth
Hobbies offer opportunities for personal growth and development. Whether learning a new skill, exploring a creative outlet, or challenging yourself in new ways, hobbies can help you expand your horizons and discover new passions.
Improved Mental Health
Hobbies have been shown to have positive effects on mental health, helping to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. They provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment, boosting self-esteem and confidence.
Social Connection
Many hobbies involve interacting with others with similar interests, providing opportunities for social connection and camaraderie. Whether joining a club, attending a class, or participating in group activities, hobbies can help you build meaningful relationships and expand your social network.
Enhanced Creativity
Hobbies such as painting, writing, or crafting can stimulate imagination and improve creativity. These activities encourage you to think outside the box, experiment with new ideas, and express yourself uniquely.
Physical Health Benefits
Some hobbies, such as gardening, hiking, or playing sports, offer physical health benefits by encouraging movement and exercise. Staying active through hobbies can improve fitness, boost energy levels, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Sense of Fulfillment
Pursuing activities you enjoy and are passionate about can provide a deep understanding of fulfilment and satisfaction. Hobbies allow you to pursue your interests, follow your passions, and indulge in activities that bring you joy and happiness.
How to find a hobby that fits like a glove
While having a hobby is substantial, finding the perfect one that fits your routine and personality is equally important. Finding a hobby you love and genuinely enjoy is like finding the ying to your yang, the apple to your bottom jeans, and, of course, us to your you—a match made in girl heaven. Here’s what you need to do.
Do a little soul-searching
Look within and ask a few critical questions, such as, what gets you excited? What makes you feel relaxed? Do you like a quiet day, or do you like loud and vibrant spaces? When you answer these questions, you will fully understand your personality and have a mental picture of what you want to spend most of your free time doing.
Try something new
Don’t be afraid to leave your comfort zone to do things you wouldn’t normally do. If you’re a sedentary worker, opt for activities that deliberately force you to be physically active while having the most fun and being productive.
Start small
You don’t need to be an overachiever when having a hobby. Pace yourself and start in the smallest possible capacity that you can. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when trying to find the perfect hobby, so start small and don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Take baby steps and experiment with different activities until you find something.
Be patient and persistent
Finding your ideal pastime takes time and patience, so don’t be frustrated if you don’t immediately see your passion. Keep researching, experimenting, and trying different things until you discover one that speaks to you.
Listen to your gut
When experimenting with new interests, trust your instincts and go with your gut. Pay attention to how each activity makes you feel – are you invigorated and engaged, or are you counting the minutes until it ends? Your gut will guide you through the experience and help you have the best possible time.
As I always say, “All work and no play makes Marie a dull girl.” So, break that routine today and find the task that best suits you and your desires. Let go of the stress and let in all the fun and quirky tasks a girl can have.
