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Having a job you love that is built around your passion is what we all strive for, but when your past-time, hobby, wind-down activity, or whatever you want to call it becomes your business it often no longer functions as something that is 100% relaxing. Today I️ want to discuss how to find a new hobby to help you to unwind, to explore new interests, and to add some balance to your life. Whether you're looking to fill your free time or simply want to try something new, this guide will help you find a hobby to enjoy when you want to play around with something other than art.
Before we dive in, I️ want to share a little anecdote. This year, I️ realized I️ was working non-stop on my business, on coaching, on selling art, and when I️ did make time for my own creating it was with the intention to sell or it was a commission. I️ no longer was painting to paint.
Fast forward and I️ am currently working on getting back into painting just for paintings sake, but I️ found that having a second hobby that was in no way related to my business has really helped me to unwind. I️ picked up knitting, an old love, and immediately was reminded of how fun it is to lose yourself in a project with no monetary value, no timeline, and maybe even no purpose. I️ was having fun and it didn't even need to be good. If you are anything like me and need a break from your passion from time to time or need a hobby that really allows you to "check-out" then this this article is for you.
Assess your interests and hobbies.
The first step in finding a new hobby is to assess your current interests and hobbies. Make a list of the things you enjoy doing in your free time or better yet the things you loved as a kid. Whether it's reading, hiking, cooking, or playing a musical instrument, nothing is too big or too small. Think about the activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, and consider how you can incorporate them into a new hobby. You may also want to try something completely new and different, so don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and explore new interests.
Try something outside of your comfort zone.
When looking for a new hobby, it's important to not limit yourself to only what you know and are comfortable with in fact I️ find it is better to do the uncomfortable. Trying something new and different can be a great way to challenge yourself and discover new passions. I read that we get into a "flow state" when we are challenged outside of our comfort zone. If you really want to relax then I encourage you to try something hard. Consider taking a class or workshop in a subject you've always been curious about. You never know what you might enjoy until you give it a try.
It is okay to be bad at your new hobby
When starting a new hobby, it’s important to remember that it’s okay to be bad at it. The point of a hobby is to enjoy the process of learning and improving, not to be perfect from the start. Embrace the learning curve and understand that being bad means you will have to focus which means you will be taking your mind off of the stressors of the day. That is exactly what we want this hobby to do!
Consider your budget and time constraints.
When searching for a new hobby, it's important to consider your budget and time constraints. Some hobbies can be expensive, requiring specialized equipment or materials, while others may require a significant time commitment. Consider what you can realistically afford and how much time you can dedicate to your new hobby. Don't let your new hobby take time away from your current work, creative art time, or art budget. It should enhance your current life not take away.
Find a community or group to join.
One of the best ways to stay motivated and engaged in your new hobby is to find a community or group to join. This could be a local club, online forum, or even just a group of friends who share your interest. Being part of a community allows you to learn from others, share your own experiences, and get feedback and support. Plus, it’s a great way to make new friends and expand your social circle. As artists, we are alone a lot. Find an art group or a group based around your new hobby!
Below are 10 of my favorite hobby ideas for creatives. I️ also linked to relevant resources that you might find useful.
Embroidery - Crewel Ghoul - I️ love her site and tutorials
Knitting - Knit Collage - This is where I️ get all my yarns and patterns
Pottery - See if you have classes in your community
Cooking - Join a meal delivery like Hello Fresh
Walking, hiking or getting outside - It's free and good for you
Try making art in a different medium - read about some supplies I️ love here
Take a class - a great way to improve your skills and meet more people!
Learn an instrument
Learn a new language - this is something that I️ would love to do!
Pick up a physical hobby like running, rock climbing or try joining a local sports league - I️ played beach volleyball one summer when I️ first moved to Charleston and made so many friends. We didn't focus on being good, we just focused on having fun and getting our minds off of the work day.
These are just a few that came to mind, but I️ hope you find one of your own! If you enjoyed this article, then I️ encourage you to check out the podcast and membership platform where I️ share more detailed content about these topics.