We've heard so much about how beneficial routines are. Everyone stresses the human need for consistency and schedule. What these article's don't speak about; is how repetitive tasks can drain the joys from your life. If you aren't regularly being challenged by new ideas, you may feel a sense of stagnancy or a lack of fulfillment. You may even look back on earlier years and wonder where the excitement went. If you’re tired of living on autopilot, there’s a simple solution. Investing in hobbies is a great way to boost your mental wellbeing. With the right tools and methods, you can transform your daily routine.
Why Should We Have Hobbies?
Life often revolves around work, chores, and responsibilities. But hobbies offer something more than just another way to pass the time. They are gateways to personal enrichment and fulfilment. Hobbies allow you to explore new interests, and try things that bring joy, rather than stress.
Above all, hobbies provide enrichment. Engaging in activities outside of work commitments can test your mind and creativity. Through learning a new instrument or visual art - hobbies push you out of your comfort zone. This experimentation and consistent effort are crucial to self-growth. People will have different needs depending on their personality. For those who feel energised by their community, a hobby can allow you to meet new people. Make new friends by joining a sports team or hosting a book club. Of course, if you're on the introverted side, there are plenty of activities to wind down within your own company. The Quilters Companion Diary is perfect for those who wish to unwind alone with textile crafts – providing the best of handmade items to use as inspiration, from quilted wall hangings, quilts, and table runners to cushions.
Hobbies also offer a life outside of work. It’s easy to get consumed by your obligations, but a fulfilling hobby provides a healthy escape. By creating a work/life balance, they promote improved physical and mental wellbeing.
Before, you may have struggled to find a reason to keep being diligent with work and commitments. A lack of purpose can severely impact otherwise perfect lifestyles. As we age, things begin to become repetitive. We no longer have the same motivational milestones as we may have had when we were younger. On days which would otherwise be monotonous, hobbies add uncertainty. Every minute you spend on a new craft could be a significant milestone. This uncertainty and goal setting is exactly what keeps people returning. Relaxed or ambitious, hobbies help you achieve something beyond professional milestones. Imagine the faces of your friends and family when you tell them you've been learning Spanish for 100 days!
Most importantly, a hobby gives you the chance to look at things differently. In times where people are busy with their own problems, a new hobby could help you support your community. Volunteering at your local community kitchen encourages you to look at life differently. Even if it’s just solving puzzles, hobbies push you to act in ways you may never have considered. These new perspectives will influence how you solve problems in your everyday life.
What Type of Hobbies Should I Have?
It may feel overwhelming choosing a hobby when there is so much out there. However, it's important to pick something that brings you joy and motivation. Here are a few key factors to consider that ensure your hobby is an enjoyable experience.
Finding hobbies that have measurable, realistic progress ensures you don’t give up halfway. If you expect to be fluent in a language in 30 days, you will be discouraged when you inevitably don't meet that goal. Be realistic, and don't add unnecessary pressure to your life. Pick hobbies with clear progress markers. It's hard to quantify a hobby like "exercise". However, if your hobby is specific like "weightlifting", you can track how much you can lift as you progress. Having clear goals fuels excitement and ongoing satisfaction as you continue to improve.
Avoid hobbies that rely on external factors. Watching movies or TV shows might be enjoyable, but they don't allow for goal setting. If you want to make media consumption a hobby, try to approach it intentionally. Set progress markers, like watching one movie a month or exploring all shows from a particular time or director. This approach brings a heightened level of engagement and purpose to your hobby. Most of all, it ensures you are spending your time well.
It’s important to avoid hobbies that are monetized or come with too much pressure. When you begin to rely on a hobby for income or success, it stops being a hobby. Even if you aren't relying on it- putting money on the line makes your growth inorganic. The joy of a hobby should come from the freedom it offers, not from financial success. Keep hobbies as a way to relax and unwind, not another source of stress.
Finally, be realistic about your schedule and energy. Select hobbies that you can commit to for at least six months, even if life gets hectic. If you can't keep up with your hobby due to a packed schedule or other commitments—it can lead to frustration. Consistency is vital, so pick something that fits into your lifestyle. The sense of accomplishment you feel after hitting a time milestone is like nothing else!
How Can I Make the Most of My Hobbies?
Once you’ve chosen a hobby, be sure to make the most of it to reap the full benefits. The best way to stay committed and track your progress is by maintaining a hobby journal. You may be thinking; "I barely have enough time for the hobby, now I need a journal?" Don't worry, it doesn't need to be extensive. By keeping a simple log, you can elevate your experience immensely. If you’re looking for a place to start, The WellBeing Calm Diary brings a sense of peace and serenity to the new year. Pre-filled with inspiration and relevant dates, the WellBeing Diary Collection offers a simple layout for someone who may not know where to begin on their hobby journey.
While a hobby allows for a break from routine, if it isn't able to fit into your current schedule, it won't be sustainable. Ensure that you can commit by recording specific times for your project. Even half an hour a week can drastically impact your wellbeing. The Monthly Planner Calendar is a great way to keep track of consistency, and super easy to fill up. Before you know it, a year will have passed. With The Monthly Planner, you’ll be able to see how each individual day of work has contributed to a significant, meaningful project.
We've already established how important setting goals are. But what's the point if you forget about them in a week? With a hobby journal, be sure to mark down important days and milestones to look back on and see how far you've come. Having a clear display of progress is very motivating and great to reflect on.
If your hobby requires specific equipment or procedures, stay consistent with your journal. If you forget a step in your pre-workout preparation, you may not be able to lift as much as previous attempts. Progress isn't always linear, but regression is always discouraging. Ensure you have the perfect circumstances for success every time with a journal.
Now, if you're like me, the idea of spending hours writing words on a page can be daunting. It's good to remember that you aren't getting graded! Your journal is for you - there is no right or wrong way to use it. Make journalling as enjoyable as your hobby by using colours, adding photos, and more. Allowing yourself creative freedom prevents your hobby from turning into a chore. Enjoy every step in the process without the pressures of being perfect. A Meerkats Guide to Life Diary is a personal favourite silly option: With their bubbly personalities and inquisitive nature, the meerkat will bring a smile to your face 365 days a year. Just try to resist that face!
If your hobby is something you can't see, a hobby journal is a great way to share it with family and friends. It’s a tangible reminder of how much you’ve learned and achieved in your personal time. For example, your parents may not be able to understand the Spanish you've been learning. What they can understand, is the number of hours you've put in and your milestones. Your dedication and growth are best translated through your journal - they might even want to join in! Make things easier for Mum and Dad, by using the Big Dates Easy-to-See Calendar. Setting a calendar up in a communal space, and consistently checking it off helps keep you accountable, and everyone else in the loop – even when you might not have the time for a sit-down chat.
Finding joy in your daily life doesn’t have to be complicated. Through hobbies, we can develop new skills and form lasting connections. Re-discovering an old passion or trying something new, the right hobby can give you a sense of purpose. With a little thought and effort, you can find personal enrichment for yourself. Start your journey today!
