Adulting is hard. We all know it. But, one of the things that can make it a little easier is finding a hobby. A hobby can help you blow off steam, learn new things, and give you a sense of accomplishment.
Finding a hobby in the adult world can be daunting for some people, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
Here are interesting insights on how to find a hobby as an adult:
The perfect hobby provides you with an opportunity that helps you to relax, unwind, and have fun. Unfortunately, many of us lose track of what we used to like doing and what our interests are as some of us are busy focusing on higher studies, working professionally, building a career, and even raising a family.
During COVID-19, the most highlighted psychosocial problem affected was a rise in mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
At that time, many leading health organizations, such as The National Health Service and WHO (2020), emphasized the importance of allocating time for leisure hobbies. It can separate outstanding professionals from mediocre ones, making them extraordinary at work.
Pick from your childhood interests
According to experts, you should continuously pursue something that you once loved doing as a child. Try remembering what your favorite fun activity during your childhood was. Ask your parents and other family members; they will surely tell you.
It can be baking cookies with your mother, so you can start baking. Try new recipes and make your own. If you used to love playing with paints, get yourself some basic art stationery and start painting today.
Think in weeks, not days
Yes, we believe that you are busy! But looking at your time might help you find the free time you crave, so you are free to take as much time as needed to choose the right thing.
Sometimes, we start something we think we will like but end up hating it, and sometimes we spend lots of money on one particular hobby in which we might end up losing interest in. Hence, it is said that one should take time to think about his interests.
As we all are busy in our lives and it is hard to spare time from our busy schedules for hobbies, to be very honest, we cannot put much focus on hobbies that can give us stress and burdens our workload rather than helping us to overcome that.
Therefore, actively engaging in a hobby is a much better stress reliever than doing nothing.
Find a hobby that will make you forget the time
The primary purpose of finding the right hobby is that it will entertain you.
One of the ways to make use of valuable time is by indulging in productive hobbies.
Productive hobbies help in improving your life considerably and help you rediscover yourself. It helps to flex your creative muscles and help you spend your time effectively.
Related: 7 Daily Good Habits To Improve Your Life Forever
Productive hobbies also benefit your brain and body. They are obliging you to stay active and mindful throughout the day.
Choose the hobby that can excite you, and your time passes by just like the blink of an eye, and you enjoy and at the same time helps you in enhancing your skills, making you relax, enabling you to make more money, and keeping you mentally and physically fit.
For instance, if you like spending time in nature and love plants, you can start gardening. You can plant your favorite vegetables and fruits unavailable in the market nearby.
Planting different kinds of flowers can make your garden look beautiful, and you will forget how much time is passed.
Challenge yourself and do the unexpected
Why not try a hobby you always wanted but are scared that everyone will judge you? You are a second push away from developing hobbies that are social stigmas, such as a particular hobby that is only specified for a specific gender.
For example, why do boys always need to be on sports teams and girls participate in dance, cooking, or arts/crafts? Are certain people way too old to learn how to play a video game or learn a new language? The answer to these questions is no. So, try to give it a shot and start something new.
If you always wanted to become an athlete, but people around you see you as a bookworm, challenge yourself and get yourself enrolled in any of your favorite sport class today!
Find something that will help you make money
It is okay if you want to earn money and at the same time you want to take some time for yourself too then why not choose a hobby that can help you make more money, for example:
- Do you find yourself lost in the world of strokes of brushes and colors?
- You spend endless hours drawing and creating beautiful images with procreate?
If you love writing, there are so many ways you can put this hobby on a profitable side.
Make a profile on LinkedIn, Fiverr, and Upwork, and start freelancing. Start writing for other people. Start with academic writing and then take yourself towards fiction writing, which will help you pen down your imagination. It also helps you sharpen your skill and become a master of your work.
You can start cooking/baking and selling online as we all love good food and in modern days, having food delivered to our doorstep is all we need.
I know many people who bake cookies and make a lot of money. They have a cute, aesthetically organized Instagram or any social media page; it will surely help you gain more followers.
Find something that will help you stay in shape
Running has so many benefits for you physically as well as for mental health.
You can call some friends and ask if they want to join and start running together. On the roads, on a track, or maybe you can go for a hike. It will also help you maintain your social life and have many health benefits.
If you love dancing, then join an aerobics class at a nearby gym. Swimming can be a good option; you can start swimming with many benefits and anti-aging effects.
Related: How to Get Back in Shape, According to 17 Fitness Experts
Find something that will make you smarter
It would help if you worked out regularly to stay physically fit and engage your brain to keep it in good shape. Periodically challenging the brain to do new and different things enhances its abilities and helps to keep your mind sharp.
For example, you can choose a hobby that can trick your mind and needs many thinking processes, such as playing sudoku, chess, puzzles, riddles, and board games.
Through these activities, you also learn to respond to situations in different and creative ways, develop the ability to see things from a whole new perspective, and can help you become significantly smarter.
Dedicate some time from the whole day to yourself
Becoming an adult is a strenuous process; it takes a great toll on your physical and mental health, and hence you deserve a frivolous “me time.” You can give “me time” by dedicating some time from the whole day to yourself.
According to experts and influencers, taking time out for yourself has many benefits. It can help you in building higher self-esteem.
For instance, one of my friends loves to write, and he writes because he is passionate about it. Penning down your thoughts gives pleasure and helps you keep track of your deep inner thoughts while sitting alone.
You can start reading a fiction book as it can help to stimulate your thoughts and send you to the other dimension.
Reading can help you escape real-life problems like a spa for your brain. You can start meditation and yoga at home. YouTube has guided meditation and yoga classes available. You can tune into one of them and start doing it regularly.
Related: How to Improve Mindfulness and Meditation (Using Your Learning Style)
As an adult, the hardest part is always trying to find the best for you, but apart from that, hobbies can be incredibly beneficial for your mental health. The benefits of a hobby will differ depending on the time you devote and the effort you will put into it.
Choose something that can help you in many ways, whether lifting heavy objects at the gym, mixing exotic ingredients in the kitchen, learning a new language, or something else entirely.
I love the fact that over the last ten years, I’ve turned my hobbies into a way to earn a living. I’ve been a ski instructor and a hiking guide, and I’m still working regularly as a professional photographer.
As wonderful as it all sounds (and most days, it is), there are times when I regret turning my hobbies into my job. The things I used to do to shut off from work became the things I did for work.
But suffering from stress-related health issues, burnout, and going through a pandemic has taught me how important it is to have hobbies that allow me to completely shut off from my work and just have fun—sometimes with a bit of adrenaline thrown in for good measure.
Finding new hobbies as an adult certainly hasn’t been easy. Starting anything new as an adult can be quite intimidating, especially if it’s something you’re doing by yourself.
But whether it’s a new hobby that you’re starting at home or something you’re taking up with a group of other people, it’s wonderful when you get to discover new passions.
Here are two things I embraced that led me to some of my new adult hobbies:
Follow your curiosity and be spontaneous
Kids are great at having spontaneous thought and following it with curiosity wherever it leads. But as adults, that sort of behavior is often frowned upon.
Being spontaneous is often seen as being unpredictable, and we’re pretty much trained out of that behavior from an early age.
But being more childlike, listening to your unconscious, and following your thoughts with curiosity can lead to some fun outcomes.
How I followed my curiosity:
Over the last year, I kept thinking about drawing and felt a desire to be creative. It was something I did a bit as a kid, but because I didn’t really have any measurable talent for it, I stopped when I was high school age.
At the age of 37, I had the strong urge to draw again. But there was also the hesitation and thoughts of “I’ll probably be rubbish at it.”
I avoided drawing on paper because I remembered those feelings of failure as a kid when I would go through page after page, getting frustrated because it wasn’t turning out how I wanted.
After weeks of thinking about it, I finally went out and bought an iPad and downloaded an app for drawing. It was my way of hitting undo if it wasn’t going well but still being able to draw. And I love it.
Related: Overcoming Fear of Failure (Avoid these 3 Mistakes)
At the end of a busy workday, I love curling up on the sofa and just drawing whatever I feel like. Most of the time, it looks like a 5-year old drew it, but I don’t care! It’s a wonderful way to relax and calm my busy mind.
Try something outside of your comfort zone
Sometimes fear can be a disguise for something that we actually really want. Have you always dreamed of learning ballet or circus skills as an adult but been made to feel like these activities are just for kids or just way too far outside of your comfort zone?
My other favorite hobby as an adult is climbing. I’ve enjoyed other outdoor pursuits for years but always said that climbing wouldn’t be for me. But one day, I decided to give it a try, and I was hooked.
It was something so far outside of my comfort zone to start with (and still often is when I’m climbing something hard), but the thrill of doing something I never thought I’d be able to do has really helped boost my self-confidence.
Related: Why is Self Confidence Important?
When it comes to finding new hobbies as an adult, don’t be dissuaded by whether you think you’ll be any good at it or if it makes you a little nervous to try something new.
Try anything and everything you’re curious about—and just maybe, you’ll find something you absolutely love.
Katie Ziskind, BS, MA, MFT, LMFT
Licensed Holistic Marriage and Family Therapist | Owner, Wisdom Within Counseling
Finding a new hobby can be a great way to make new friends, socialize, and improve your mental health. Doing new things can bring up anxiety, so take the time to breathe deeply before going to your new hobby and do some positive self-talk if you experience anxiety.
Find a new hobby group on a website
You can find a new hobby group on a website and search for your interest. There are casual biking meet-ups, painting, public speaking, hiking, and even yoga meet-ups.
Be gentle with yourself if it is new to you
When you try a new hobby, know that it might be difficult at first because it is new to you. If you have never done yoga before, be gentle with yourself and think of it as an adventure.
You might need to try a few different yoga studios, a few different times of the day, or a few different types of yoga teachers to find the style of yoga that you truly enjoy that you can see being a long-term self-care practice.
A new hobby could also be going hiking, so taking the time to find your favorite hiking trail, if you like to hike by the waterfall or by the ocean, and the right hiking shoes will also make a big difference in enjoying your hobby.
There are different hiking apps that can show you the hiking trails nearby to where you are located.
Let your hobby be a sensory break from technology
Think of your new hobby or something that can, in richer life, be an outlet for stress and help you feel centered in the present moment. When you do this hobby, you can feel reconnected to a creative side of yourself.
Let your hobby be something that can reconnect your mind, body, and spirit and doesn’t involve drugs or alcohol, and could even be a sensory break from technology.
Related: 25+ Benefits of a Social Media Detox
Work with a therapist
If you feel depression or anxiety when you think about trying a new hobby, working with a therapist can help you develop confidence, creative thinking, and decision-making skills to get out there and try a new hobby.
Tap into your inner child
One of the best ways to find a hobby as an adult is to think back to what you liked to do when you were a child. Maybe it was arts and crafts or playing tag with your friends outside.
These ideas can give you leads for hobbies you might be interested in now. Let’s say you were interested in arts and crafts; perhaps you can take up knitting or learn to paint.
If you enjoyed playing tag with friends, joining some kind of intramural sports team could be a great option. The added bonus of doing something that involves more people, like a sports team or a class, is that you can meet others and make new friends (something that can be tough to do as an adult).
You can also think about something that you were always interested in when you were younger but maybe didn’t have the confidence or the time or the financial means to pursue it.
This kind of hobby can serve multiple purposes—yes, you’re doing something that is fun and engaging, and you’re also taking care of your inner child in a way that you weren’t able to when you were younger.
Taking care of yourself in a way that was too difficult to do as a child can be very healing.
Side note:
When I was a teenager, I always wanted to play guitar but never felt like I would be good enough at it.
Almost a year ago, I decided to teach myself to play, and I also started taking lessons! It has done wonders for my self-esteem, and I know my 13-year-old self would be astonished and very proud.
Related: How to Believe in Yourself More?
Signing up for a class is a wonderful way to start
Most people who are adults now still enjoy shopping and playing with their children. A hobby is something that is done as a benefit to yourself and can be used as a way to relax.
When we’re young and explore our hobbies, it’s so much easier to find something we like. Once we hit adulthood, however, it’s much more difficult to find a hobby that we actually enjoy.
Tips for finding the perfect hobby for you:
If you’re lucky enough to still have a few free hours in your day, then you should take advantage of them. After all, it’s your time—use it for something worthwhile.
Gaining an interest in a hobby is a truly rewarding experience and can change your whole life. If you’re thinking about starting a new hobby or just finding one that appeals to you, there are some things you should know first.
If you’re an adult and haven’t found your passion, it’s time to rekindle the flame of your youth. It may take some time, but if you keep at it, you’ll find the hobby that will make your heart sing. By learning these tips, hopefully, you’ll discover what kinds of hobbies might suit your tastes.
The good news is that there are so many varied hobbies that it’s easy to find something exciting:
- Using your free time wisely is essential.
- Schedule your hobby time into your calendar to help keep it a priority.
- Signing up for a class is a wonderful way to start your hobby.
- Don’t put pressure on yourself to find what you love.
If you really know what you love to do, then open up a blank document and start writing it down.
Many people have many hobbies. Some of these hobbies started when they were kids and came with them into adulthood.
But what if you’re an adult and you don’t have any hobbies but want to start? How can you find a hobby as an adult?
Think about what you like and what you don’t
You can start by listing things that you like to do and things you don’t like. Your list will help you to narrow down what hobbies you might be interested in pursuing, along with weeding out those you know you can skip.
You probably already know what you like and hate, so keep this in mind when learning about new hobbies. No matter how much your friend tells you they love bungee jumping, that doesn’t mean you will, too.
Don’t jump all in without testing the water first
It’s great to be willing to invest fully in a new hobby. But what if you start doing something and realize you don’t like it as much as you thought? Then the $200 you just spent on those new rollerblades or the $300 you spent on a vinyl cutting machine might not be money well-spent.
Test the waters first by borrowing or renting equipment to see if you like something as much as you thought you might.
Realize that you can have more than one hobby
Don’t get stuck thinking that you can only have one hobby. It’s okay for one hobby to stretch into another. It’s also okay for your hobbies not to be related at all.
For example, I am a frequent visitor of a certain mouse-related theme part. I like to make headbands that resemble animal ears. I also enjoy making matching t-shirts to go with these headbands. Sometimes I only make headbands, and sometimes I just make shirts, but I enjoy creating both. I also enjoy singing karaoke.
Crafting and singing are completely unrelated, but that doesn’t mean I can’t have fun with both hobbies.
Join a friend
You are friends with people for a reason. Maybe one reason is that you and your friend enjoy doing the same things. It shouldn’t be a surprise, then, to find that the hobbies that your friends enjoy might be hobbies that you would enjoy as well.
See if you can tag along or participate in your friends’ hobbies to find out if they might be something you want to pursue as a hobby of your own. Even if you find that you don’t like that hobby, at least you got to spend some time with your friend.
Remember, the list is almost endless
Many tasks can be hobbies, and many hobbies have no necessity other than providing joy. Depending on what you enjoy, both types of hobbies can be fun.
Some people have a green thumb and enjoy gardening, while others would never be caught outside playing with plants. Some want to be active by dancing, walking, biking, or doing other physical activities. Others would rather find hobbies they can enjoy in a chair or at a table.
Neither is wrong nor right—there is only what is wrong or right for you.
Once you start looking around, you’ll find there are many hobbies to choose from. Don’t be afraid to try one, or two, or more. After you try them, you might find a hobby you love.
We all know how important it is to have a hobby. It’s a great way to relieve stress, meet new people, and have some fun. But finding a hobby as an adult can be tough. Maybe you don’t have the time or money for something super involved, or perhaps you just don’t know where to start.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Start with something you’re already interested in
Do you like reading? Knitting? Drawing? Hiking? Whatever it is, there’s probably a group or class for it. Check out your local community center or library for more information.
Consider your budget
Some hobbies can be very expensive, but there are plenty of others that are completely free. It all depends on what you’re interested in.
Get active
There are tons of hobbies that involve physical activity, from dance classes to playing sports. Not only is this great for your health, but it’s also a great way to meet new people.
Tap into your creative side
If you’re looking for a way to express yourself, consider hobbies like painting, photography, or writing.
Do something for others
Many hobbies involve giving back to the community, such as volunteering at a local animal shelter or working with kids.
Related: The Importance and Benefits of Volunteering, According to 15 Real Life Volunteers
Whatever hobby you choose, make sure it’s something you’re passionate about. That way, you’ll stick with it and get the most out of it. And who knows? You might just find your new favorite pastime.
Take stock of what you already do and pick out what you like best
An easy way to determine how to find a hobby as an adult is to look at what you already do in your everyday life and pick out the things you enjoy.
A hobby is something you should like participating in and something that is not above your skill level. This is why if you do something you’re already familiar with, you have a high chance of sticking with it and liking it.
A good example of this is someone who might like to bake. They might not do it often, but when they do, it’s enjoyable. This can easily become a hobby as you can work on different techniques, make treats for a fundraiser or just share your baked goods with friends and family.
If you like reading, you can easily join a book group that talks about what you read and create a challenge around reading by having a due date of when you need to read it.
There are many small things you enjoy in your life that you never suspect could become a hobby. This is why it’s a good idea to simply start writing down what you already know and do to find a good hobby.
I am now in my 50s, and I’ve only recently begun to invest time in finding and developing hobbies.
It was something that I never really gave much thought to in my younger years, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized how important it is to have hobbies and interests outside of work and family life.
Here are a few tips on how to find a hobby as an adult:
Think about what you enjoyed doing as a child
What did you spend your free time doing? What made you happy? These are all clues as to what kinds of hobbies might be enjoyable for you now.
Talk to friends and family members about their hobbies
Ask them what they enjoy doing in their spare time and why they find it enjoyable. It can also be helpful to talk to people who have similar interests as you.
Be persistent and patient
Developing a new hobby can take some time and effort, but it’s important to stick with it. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results right away; hobbies are supposed to be enjoyable, so focus on the process and not the end goal.
Don’t be afraid to try something new
Hobbies are supposed to be enjoyable, so don’t worry about failing or not being good at something. The important thing is that you’re having fun and expanding your interests.
If you’re not sure what you might like, experiment with different activities until you find something that clicks.
Set aside some time each week to devote to your hobby
It doesn’t have to be a lot of time, but it’s important to ensure that you’re making progress on your hobby and not letting it fall by the wayside. You can also look for opportunities to incorporate your hobby into your daily life.
Make a list of things you like to do
I went through a whole self-discovery journey to remember who I really was and what I enjoyed after the whirlwind of marriage and having two kids within a few years.
One thing that really helped me, after noticing that I wanted to connect back with what lit me up, was to start making some specific lists.
Writing out all of the small (and big) things I ever liked to do in my life before kids and stuff I had a desire to do based on the examples below all went onto a list to help get a sense of what sounded interesting:
- What other people were doing.
- What was showing up on my Pinterest board.
- Where I liked to linger at the craft store.
Combine interests
Next was picking a few top contenders and seeing if there were any interesting crossovers between them. I feel that finding a niche you enjoy that connects with you on a couple of different levels will help you get excited about this hobby and ensure that you make time to make it happen.
Wanting to spend time painting is great, but picking a project that also reminds you of your favorite band or vacation spot would be even more meaningful.
My example is I love to read, and I love re-watching Gilmore Girls. I learned about FanFiction and went deep into that rabbit hole of stories other fans had written, reading numerous stories over the past few years and connecting with a few authors and fellow fans.
My new hobby is again connecting Gilmore Girls with embroidery. I came across someone who creates Gilmore Girls-themed embroidery kits, and I’m so excited to get to work on this project and connect to my much younger self, who loved to make friendship bracelets and do some stitching.
Dork out and connect with others
I think that getting nerdily specific with what you enjoy will help you cultivate that new (old) hobby and help you find a group of people who also enjoy it.
Sharing your creations with people who can help you grow your skills and celebrate when you complete something is an added layer to help your new hobby turn into something more.
In summary: My ultimate tip would be to “nerd out mashup”
Make a list of all the things you have enjoyed doing throughout your whole life, getting extra specific about the things you like to geek out on.
See if there are ways to combine them into a dorky mashup that is just perfectly you, like combining a favorite show and a childhood craft. It will give you some past experience to draw from while having fun creating something that celebrates all of you.
When you start a hobby that connects with you on multiple levels, you just can’t help but make time for it.
It’s hard to explore new things as an adult. Between work and family obligations, there’s little time for doing the things you love and far less time for dabbling in new interests.
However, all hope is not lost. You can seek out new hobbies as an adult without seriously impacting your time.
Here are a few tips to help you find that engrossing hobby you’ve been looking for:
Think back to when you were young
The first step to finding a hobby you will love is to consider what you enjoyed when you were a teenager. Often, the hustle and bustle of daily life make us forget the things we loved as children, but the spark is still there, buried inside of us.
Think back to your childhood and consider the things you loved to do then. Were you inspired by art? Did you keep a journal? Were you actively participating in a sports team, drama club, or chess team?
Consider revisiting some of those hobbies as an adult. You may find a long-forgotten love.
Use the web for inspiration
You may also find that you’ve outgrown all of your childhood hobbies, and that’s okay too. One of the greatest joys in life is finding something new to explore.
The internet is a great resource for finding new hobbies at your fingertips. The Meetup app features get-togethers based on interests in your local community. Browse your area to see if any of the available groups seem interesting, and check one out.
Facebook is filled with groups dedicated to specific hobbies, from traveling to the arts. Search a few things you are interested in and join a few related groups.
Browsing posts related to a potential new hobby might give you some insight into whether you want to try it or not.
If you’re really stuck, read one of the many posts on unique and creative hobbies to get some inspiration. You may find something you’ve never heard of, like Kintsugi, that grabs your attention!
Related: 20 Best Books to Jumpstart Your Creativity (in 2022)
Journaling
Although journaling can be a hobby in and of itself, it can also be a great way to reflect and discover your inner desires. Use a journal as a tool to guide your search for a new hobby.
List a few things you are interested in, and brainstorm ideas to turn that interest into a hobby. For example, say you are interested in art. That’s great. Finding your interests is the first step!
However, with so many artistic hobbies to explore, narrowing in on one can be overwhelming. What exactly do you like about art? Do you want to create art or learn about it? What type of art do you want to create?
Using your journal to dig deep into your interests will help you narrow your focus to specific hobbies to try.
Limitations to finding your hobby and how to overcome them
Many of us already know what we want to explore but find barriers to getting out and doing it. Here are some common limitations to pursuing a hobby and some tips on overcoming them.
Worrying that you won’t enjoy it
A big limitation people have when starting a hobby is the fear that they will invest time into it and realize it’s not for them. Although it’s annoying to spend time on something only to find you don’t like it, stop considering it a negative and see it for the fantastic outcome it is.
Discovering what you don’t like is just as much of a win as discovering what you do like. Stop worrying that you will waste time. Self-discovery is never a waste of time.
Try that weird new hobby, and if you don’t like it, who cares? You learned something about yourself and never have to spend another moment wishing you would have tried it.
Related: How to Get Rid of Negative Thoughts?
No time for hobbies
Time is a gigantic barrier to finding a hobby we enjoy. Between work and home life, time is a valuable and limited commodity. However, it’s important to remember that engaging in hobbies is a form of self-care.
If you want to be the best version of yourself at home and work, you must carve out time to recharge and engage in your own interests.
It’s okay to hire a babysitter to watch the kids for a few hours a week so you can try a cooking class. If the kids are old enough, bring them with you and allow them to explore new hobbies as well.
If time is so scarce that you absolutely can’t take more than an hour or two a week, explore your hobby in different ways. Read books or watch videos on the topic to build up inspiration for when you do have time to do it yourself.
Hobbies are expensive
While it’s true that hobbies can eat up money, they don’t have to break the bank. You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars on supplies to start a new hobby. Instead, start small.
You can dabble in nearly any hobby for less than $100.
For example, if you want to paint, you don’t have to buy a gigantic canvas and top-of-the-line paints, and you don’t need to take a class on painting.
Buy a starter kit and watch an expert on Youtube. If you love it, invest more into it, but if you hate it, you didn’t spend that much, and it’s not a big deal.
You can find starter kits for a variety of hobbies at the bookstore. Browse the bargain books section for jewelry-making kits, calligraphy kits, drawing kits, and cheap starter packs for many other things.
If something piques your interest, give it a try. The small investment in an affordable starter kit pays off in dividends if you find something you love to do.
You get to decide! The most beautiful thing about being an adult on a search for something new is that we are in total control of what we add to our life. We are no longer kids pleasing our parents, living out their expectations, wanting to fit in with friends, etc.
As we forge ahead and evolve as adults, what we do to fuel our souls may also need to evolve along with us. We are not the same, so what we like to do may also change to serve the person we are becoming.
Having said that, I would encourage anyone looking to try something new to embrace the following:
Get curious: What do you want to do?
Asking some deep and honest questions will help you tap into your inner knowing and that real version of you that may not often get to come to the party when there are professional lives that take up so much of the day.
What do you want to do? Plain and simple! If you are like, “I’ve always wanted to try rock climbing,” then do it!
Get clear: Clarify what you want your new hobby to fulfill
It is important to clarify what you want your new hobby to fulfill and how you want it to serve you. This is a real intentional approach to ensuring you are making aligned choices that work for you, not ones that drain and add more stress to an already full life.
Think about:
- What does it need to provide for you?
- Is this about getting healthier?
- Is this about being creative?
- What do you need more of in your life?
- How do you want to feel in this new hobby?
- How will you know when it is working and not working for you anymore?
Take badass action
This is the biggest way to discover yourself and keep growing and evolving with new experiences.
The sense of independence, bravery, and accomplishment we can get by simply doing the hard thing we said we were going to do is a huge confidence boost that allows the experience in and of itself to be awesome. And who knows, maybe even a long-lasting hobby.
Most people know themselves pretty well by the time they are an adult and usually have at least one or two hobbies that they enjoy occupying their free time with.
If you find yourself thinking that you don’t have any hobbies and would like to find one but have no idea where to start, I would suggest asking yourself seriously what you are interested in.
Ask yourself seriously what you are interested in
You must have an idea of what makes you happy, or at least what made you happy as a child. If nothing immediately comes to mind, going back through old childhood photos or memorabilia might jog your memory.
Things you may have written off as mere childhood games—for example, building dens as a child—might actually be an early indicator of genuine love for and interest in the outdoors and bushcraft, for instance.
Of course, the best way to discover a passion for a new hobby is to try them yourself. This might be based on a childhood hobby you are looking to rediscover your interest in, or you may want to try something completely new. Who knows, you might love it!
Experiencing something for ourselves is always the best way to learn about it.
I would also caution that a hobby doesn’t have to be anything, particularly niche or even engaging. How do you relax? If it’s sitting down with a nice drink and listening to some music every now and then, great! That’s your hobby.
I think there’s a weird kind of expectation that to qualify as a ”hobby,” something has to be active or productive (perhaps dating back to a time when most hobbies were, by necessity, productive).
A hobby can be any recreational activity that you enjoy repeatedly; you don’t have to learn anything
A hobby can be any recreational activity that you enjoy repeatedly. So no, you don’t have to learn an instrument, paint, surf, or do anything like that.
I have long considered my interest in severe weather one of my hobbies, and yet the extent to which I indulge in it is having a weather station in the yard and talking to like-minded enthusiasts online. If it makes you happy and you’re interested in it, it’s a hobby, in my book.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hobbies should adults start?
As an adult, it’s never too late to start a new hobby. There are many hobbies that adults can begin, depending on their interests and lifestyle. Here are some recommendations to consider:
• Art: Unleash your creativity through painting, drawing, or sculpting.
• Music: Learn an instrument or join a choir to make beautiful music.
• Cooking and baking: Develop your culinary skills and enjoy delicious meals and treats.
• Gardening: Connect with nature and grow your own fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
• Photography: Capture memories and moments through photography.
• Sports and fitness: Stay active and healthy by participating in a sport or workout routine.
• Travel: Explore new places and cultures and broaden your horizons.
• Volunteering: Give back to your community and make a positive impact.
• Reading and writing: Expand your knowledge and improve your writing skills by reading and writing more.
• DIY and crafting: Get creative with your hands and make your own jewelry, furniture, or home décor.
The key is finding a hobby that aligns with your interests and values and brings you joy and fulfillment. Try different activities and stick with the ones that resonate with you the most. Happy hobby hunting!
What are some rare hobbies?
If you’re looking for something unique and out of the ordinary, here are a few rare hobbies you might consider trying:
• Geocaching: A high-tech treasure hunt where you use GPS coordinates to find hidden caches around the world.
• Whittling: The art of carving small objects out of wood using a knife. It’s a relaxing and meditative hobby that can be done anywhere.
• Fire spinning: A performance art that involves spinning flaming props like poi, staffs, or hoops. It’s a visually stunning hobby that requires practice and skill.
• Falconry: The ancient art of training birds of prey to hunt. It’s a unique hobby that combines nature, animals, and history.
• Homebrewing: Create your own unique blends of beer, cider, mead, or wine. It’s a fun hobby that allows you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients.
Taxidermy: The art of preserving and mounting dead animals for display. It’s a fascinating hobby that requires patience and attention to detail.
• Bonsai: The ancient Japanese art of growing and shaping miniature trees in pots. It’s a peaceful hobby that requires patience and a green thumb.
• Juggling: The art of tossing and catching objects like balls, clubs, or knives. It’s a fun and challenging hobby that requires practice and coordination.
What hobbies grow your mindset?
Several hobbies can help you grow your mindset and develop new skills and perspectives. Some examples include:
• Reading and writing: Reading can broaden your perspective, increase your knowledge, and help you develop empathy. Writing can help you clarify your thoughts, process your emotions, and improve your communication skills.
• Meditation and mindfulness: Meditation and mindfulness practices can help you develop focus, clarity, and inner peace.
• Travel: Traveling can expose you to new cultures, perspectives, and ways of life, helping you to grow as a person.
• Learning a new skill: Learning a new skill, such as a language, musical instrument, or sport, can boost your confidence, challenge you, and help you grow mentally and emotionally.
• Volunteer work: Volunteering your time and skills to help others can increase your sense of purpose and fulfillment and help you develop a growth mindset.
• Art and creativity: Engaging in creative activities, such as painting, drawing, or sculpting, can help you tap into your imagination and express your emotions in a healthy way.
• Journaling: Keeping a journal can help you reflect on your experiences, track your growth, and cultivate a positive outlook.
What are some hobbies I can try at home?
There are many hobbies that you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home, regardless of your interests and skill level. Here are some ideas:
• Crafts: Knitting, crocheting, scrapbooking, and other handiwork hobbies can be done at home.
• Cooking and baking: Unleash your inner chef and try new recipes or bake sweet treats.
• Reading and writing: Turn your love of books into a hobby by starting a book club, writing your own stories, or joining a writing group.
• Gaming: Whether you prefer video games, board games, or card games, gaming is a fun hobby to enjoy from home.
• Gardening: If you have a green thumb, start a vegetable or flower garden in your backyard or windowsill.
What are some hobbies I can try with friends?
You can try many hobbies with friends, which can help you bond and have fun together. Here are a few options:
• Sports: Try a new sport together, like rock climbing, beach volleyball, or dodgeball.
• Art: Take an art class or join a painting party with friends.
• Music: Start a band, take lessons, or attend concerts together.
• Travel: Plan a weekend getaway or a day trip to explore new places and try new things.
• Volunteer: Give back to your community by volunteering together at a local organization.
How can I make time for a new hobby?
Making time for a new hobby can be a challenge, but it’s important to prioritize self-care and to find joy in your life. Here are some tips to help you make time:
• Prioritize: Look at your schedule and see where to allocate some time for your new hobby. It could be early mornings, lunch breaks, or evenings.
• Plan ahead: Decide how much time you want to spend on your hobby each week and stick to a schedule. This way, you’ll have a designated time slot just for you and your new hobby.
• Make sacrifices: Sometimes, making time for a new hobby means letting go of other things that consume your time. This could mean saying no to social events, delegating chores, or cutting back your screen time.
• Get creative: Can you incorporate your hobby into your daily routine? For example, if your new hobby is photography, can you take your camera with you when you go for a walk?
• Be flexible: Don’t get discouraged if you can’t stick to your schedule 100% of the time. Life is unpredictable, and sometimes, things come up. Just do your best and make time for your hobby when you can.
Do adults need hobbies?
Yes, adults definitely need hobbies! Hobbies are a great way for adults to improve their well-being and overall quality of life. Here’s why:
• Mental stimulation: Engaging in a hobby can provide mental stimulation and help keep your mind active and sharp.
• Stress relief: Hobbies can provide a much-needed break from the demands of daily life and help reduce stress and anxiety.
• Increased creativity: Pursuing a hobby can stimulate your imagination and allow you to explore new ideas and techniques.
• Improved physical health: Certain hobbies, such as hiking, playing sports, or dancing, can provide physical activity and improve overall health.
• Building new relationships: Pursuing a hobby can introduce you to new people with similar interests, allowing you to build new friendships and social connections.
How many hobbies should adults have?
There is no set number of hobbies that adults should have, as it ultimately depends on the individual’s interests, time availability, and other personal factors. Some adults may have one or two hobbies that they are passionate about, while others may have several hobbies that they enjoy.
The key is to find hobbies that you enjoy and bring you a sense of fulfillment and relaxation. It’s important to strike a balance between your hobbies and other responsibilities, such as work and family.
Having too many hobbies can lead to feeling overwhelmed and spread too thin, while not having any hobbies can lead to boredom and a lack of fulfillment. So, it’s important to find the right number of hobbies for you.
What if I’m not very skilled in a certain hobby?
Not being skilled in a certain hobby is completely normal and nothing to be discouraged about. Pursuing a new hobby is about learning, growing, and having fun, not being perfect.
Here are a few tips to help you get started:
• Start small: Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to be perfect immediately. Start with something simple and work your way up as you become more confident and skilled.
• Take lessons: Consider taking lessons or joining a class to help you learn the basics and improve your skills.
• Practice: As with any skill, practice makes perfect. Set aside time each day or each week to work on your hobby and watch your skills improve over time.
• Don’t compare yourself to others: It’s easy to compare yourself to others who may be more skilled but remember that everyone starts somewhere and everyone progresses at their own pace.
• Celebrate your progress: Take the time to celebrate your progress and acknowledge your accomplishments, no matter how small they may be.
Remember, the goal is to have fun and enjoy the process of learning and growing with your new hobby. So, be patient with yourself, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. With time and practice, you’ll become more confident and skilled.