There was a time in my life when I was overwhelmingly busy. Where I felt like I’d never have enough time to tackle my weekly chores, let alone a regular leisure activity that I actually enjoyed.

But then I started keeping a log of how much time I spent watching tv and scrolling on my phone.

This led to a realization: my free time is sacred.

And I want to spend it doing things that refill the vessel. Something that combats the stress and encourages me to lose myself in an activity.

Now don’t get me wrong. I’m not advocating you start a side hustle or a small business. And I’m definitely not encouraging you to be productive for productivity’s sake.

Instead, I’m inviting you to transition from mindless scrolling to doing things that make you feel more alive.

Here’s why you need a hobby:

Hobbies add structure to your personal life and help you have less screen time

So much of our life is spent looking at computers, tablets, phones, and TVs. And while each of these devices is integral to contemporary life, picking the right hobby can give you much-needed time away from screens. In addition, it adds structure to your free time. Instead of talking to your friends about the new series on streaming, you can chat about your time spent learning a new skill.

Hobbies help you make connections with new people

The easiest way to find new friends is to focus on common interests. Joining a recreational league, a mediation group, or finding a meetup is a great way to build new relationships in your community.

Hobbies help you deal with stress and learn new skills

Between busy work days and overwhelming obligations, it can be nice to learn how to get into the flow. Hobbies give you something to look forward to outside of work. They also give you space to continue learning without the expectation of using it in your career. Learning is fun, but it becomes harder to prioritize the older you get. Having a fun hobby exposes you to new ideas and encourages you to live a more balanced and healthy life.

Here are some hobby ideas for you to try:

Physical Hobby Ideas:

• Playing a sport
• Running or cycling
• Working out, lifting weights, or Crossfit
• Yoga, Tai Chi, or Pilates

Creative Hobby Ideas:

• Writing fiction or nonfiction
• Creating Video Content for Tiktok or Instagram
• Drawing, Painting, or making comics
• Doing arts and crafts or DIY projects
• Learning ceramics
• Starting a Youtube Channel or launching a podcast
• Taking up scrapbooking or journaling

Social Hobby Ideas:

• Doing an Improv class or standup comedy
• Joining a public speaking group
• Being on a board or volunteering for a cause you’re passionate about
• Playing board games with friends
• Attending cultural events or hosting dinner parties/wine tastings
• Joining a band or a choir

Solo Hobby Ideas:

• Learning to knit or make quilts
• Trying meditation
• Reading books
• Learning a new language
• Collecting things or thrifting

Carve out time in your daily life for peace and relaxation. Whether you pick up something from your past or try something new, finding a hobby can kickstart adding a little more joy to your life.