Why You Should Get a Hobby

I think at some point we all fall into what ends up being a boring routine. We do the same thing day after day. Eventually that boring routine can make you feel unmotivated.

Or maybe you just don't know what to do. Sometimes our friendship circle shrinks. This can be due to differences, the friendship has run it's course, or lives have gone different directions.

If you find you're in a dull routine or feeling you don't have enough to do, you might want to consider making some changes. A good place to start is to get a hobby.

Why a Hobby?

Making use of your time by doing something you enjoy is good for your emotional wellbeing. Nothing feels better than being productive and working on a hobby is productive. It can also be fun!

Hobbies are also a great way to relieve stress. You can get lost in what you're doing and forget about life for a while. Doing something you enjoy, that isn't associated with any responsibility (work, chores, etc.) also helps you relax.

A hobby will also curb boredom. You're doing something you enjoy, so you aren't bored. Better still, we are using our brain when we work on a hobby. We need to exercise our brains, as well as our bodies.

Most of all, a hobby will make you happy!

Finding the Right Hobby

Finding a hobby may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. Think about things you enjoy, things you have been wanting to do for a long time, or something you used to enjoy and haven't done in a long time.

Consider if you want a hobby you can do on your own or would prefer to participate in a group. Decide if you want a physical activity or something you can do in a relaxed atmosphere. Think about how much money you want to invest and if you need to spend it up front or buy supplies in time. These are all things to consider.

You can always search on Google or Pinterest to get ideas flowing. You might be amazed at what you find!

Get Inspired

I made a list of some ideas to get you started.

• Learn to play an instrument or pick up where you left off years ago. You will want to consider the cost of renting or purchasing an instrument, or getting your old one ready to play again. You should also decide if you want to take lessons in an individual or group setting, or teach yourself.

• Reading - Choose from a list of books you want to read or pick up a book from a genre you have enjoyed in the past, or one you don't usually read. You can see a list of recommended reading here and here. If you prefer new releases, Barnes & Noble or Amazon are great places to search. Half Price Books or any used book store is a great way to save money on books. The library is free and most, if not all, have electronic versions of most books available.

• Do puzzles - Jigsaw, crossword and number puzzles are fun and rewarding when you complete them. They can give you a good challenge and you can learn something too!

• Learn to sew, knit, crochet or quilt. These are skills that will never go out of style. You can find instruction books or free YouTube videos to help, and there might be an individual or place, such as a craft or fabric store, that offers lessons.

• Take a painting class. Again, there are different options for classes (community college, craft stores, YouTube, etc.), or give it a go on your own.

• Join or start a bunco or card group. This is a great way to have a girls night out, enjoy some conversation, have some laughs, and change up the routine.

• Try home decor and DIY. You don't have to be a designer or knock down walls to make changes in your home. You can find great tips and even instructions on DIY blogs, Instagram, YouTube, or just dive in and give it a try (if you're brave enough!). My favorite home decor blogger is Lauren at www.blesserhouse.com. Her website has tons of free tips and tutorials!

• Walking can be a stress reliever and is great exercise! Keep safety in mind - stay hydrated and be in a well populated area, and be aware of your surroundings, especially if you're walking alone. You will most likely find a walking/hiking group in your area on Meetup.com or start your own!

• Baking - if you like sweets or just enjoy baking, this can be a fun hobby. None of us need a lot of sweets sitting around so share your yummy treats with friends, neighbors, and co-workers. You can practice or learn cake decorating skills too!

• Flower arranging - this can be done at craft stores like Michael's, a community college or by watching YouTube.

• Photography - If you like to take pictures, try photography. You don't need an expensive camera. Play with the filters that come on your smartphone camera or download some inexpensive ones.

• Candle making - not only will they make your house smell good, they make great gifts too! And you can choose to use jars that fit nice with your decor!

• Jewelry making - this can be a fun way to have one-of-a-kind jewelry at an affordable price! You can also give it as gifts or make custom jewelry for friends and family.

• Writing | Journaling - This can be a great way to sort out your thoughts, do some creative writing, or even start a blog! Write your family history or your life story for the kids and grandkids. You can write anything you want, for whoever you want, just because you want to.

• Yoga - This is good for increasing flexibility and muscle strength, toning, improving energy, weight reduction, maintaining a balanced metabolism and more. I'm sure you can find a yoga studio near you, look on YouTube, or search Meetup.com to find a group.

• Travel - Consider weekend get-a-ways and even day trips. Research cities and towns you can get to in the amount of time you want to be away and go visit them! You don't have to take extended or lavish vacations to get away, but if you do have the funds and the time, by all means indulge! You can travel solo (see my post on solo travel here), with one or more people, or with a travel group. What are you waiting for?

If there is a hobby you've enjoyed in the past, why not pick it up again? If your interests have changed over the years, that doesn't mean you can't find something to do that will help you relax, exercise your brain and really enjoy your time. I hope this post inspires you to break up the routine and find a hobby you enjoy!

Until next time,

Melanie