8 Steps to Exploring New Hobbies
When you were a kid, a lot of activities and hobbies you were involved in were probably influenced by friends, family, where you grew up, and what was available to you at school or in the community. Then you grew up and moved on, perhaps leaving many of those fondly remembered hobbies in the past.
Fast forward ten, fifteen, twenty years, and you might be wondering why you don’t do anything fun anymore. Your life and time are consumed by a lot of adult responsibilities, leaving you to think there is little room for a hobby. And forget about trying anything out of your comfort zone or considered too risky.
Now Dr. Stuart Brown who started The National Institute of Play said, “The opposite of play is not work. The opposite of play is depression.” Dr. Stuart Brown among other scientists have found that play, playfulness, and trying new things have many health benefits. Like what you ask?
Better stress management
Improved physical health
Boosts your mood
Over the past five years, I have done a lot of reflecting about my own hobbies. I realized that if I didn’t take a chance and try something I may love, I would not get an opportunity to bring more joy and much needed leisure time in my life. So in those five years I have tried basket weaving, piano lessons, art classes, and creative writing. I feel like a happier and healthier version of me, who is a lot more comfortable trying something new. This happier version of me is also a Mom who plays games far more with her kids too. I didn’t know the science at the time, but my experience supports what the science is saying about playful activities.
So without further delay…
Here's how to (fearlessly!) explore new hobbies:
Think about what you already love. Write down your current passions and interests. This will help you narrow down hobbies.
Think about and write down hobbies you have always wanted to try. In this list, go ahead and write down ones that seem absolutely crazy. It is just a list, and it will help you later in the process when it does come time to pick hobbies.
Dig a little deeper. Research and write down a couple of hobbies you hadn’t considered in the first two lists. You can google things like “best new hobbies for adults” or “lists of hobbies for adults.”
Talk with friends and family. They can share stories about their hobbies, have ideas for you, or may even want to join you.
Create your ultimate hobby list. Now it is time to write down at least three to five hobbies you want to try. You can write down more or add to the list as you go. Remember, this list is not set in stone, and you can change it whenever you want.
Set a time. Open up time in your schedule for the new hobby, and create a timeframe for how frequently you will try the new hobbies on your list. For example, you may aim to participate in your new hobby for an hour a week, or you may decide to try a new hobby once a year. Once you pick a time in your week to start your new hobby, get it in your schedule with a reminder. You don’t want to forget!
Make it a reality. It is time: time to call and schedule the activity, buy the materials, and make it happen.
Share you experiences. After you try out your new hobbies, share you experiences with others. This is a great way to connect, grow friendships, and support your newfound hobby.
Starting something new like a hobby can often feel a bit scary and overwhelming, but the benefits are worth it. You get a chance to find something you have fun doing. You have the opportunity to create new friendships. And you get to learn and grow with the experience. Go out there a live a little!