A hobby is typically defined as an activity or interest pursued outside one’s regular occupation and engaged in primarily for pleasure. For example, as a self-avowed entertainment enthusiast, I like to collect movie/TV/pop culture memorabilia; I also enjoy photography and reading. I especially love Star Wars, James Bond, and the Green Bay Packers, as evidenced by the photo collage above! Other popular past times include gardening, sports, hiking, cooking, and playing an instrument.
So, what is the value of having a hobby? Does it really matter whether or not you participate in some kind of extracurricular activity? There are several reasons it is important; hobbies can actually help produce the following results:
#1. Gives you a social outlet
#2. Decreases your stress
#3. Distracts you from the negative issues in your life
#4. Helps you connect with other people
#5. Recharges your batteries
#6. Gives insight into yourself
#7. Assists in improving your physical and psychological health
#8. Helps build your character and enhance your perspective
#9. Increases your self-esteem
#10. Makes you interesting!
In terms of finding a hobby that best suits you, here are some questions to ask yourself; they may help in narrowing down your choices:
What interests you?
What is your primary reason for choosing a hobby?
What did you love doing as a child?
Would you prefer to work independently or with others?
How much money are you willing to invest?
Are you willing to go outside your comfort zone?
What do you value the most?
What skills/talents do you possess?
Do you like working indoors or outdoors?
Are you more active or sedentary?
Have you done your own research either online or by talking with others?
Best wishes finding a hobby that you enjoy and sticking with it!
What are your thoughts? Do you have other suggestions? What are your hobbies? Do you have any personal stories you are willing to share? Please feel free to ask questions or share your experiences below.
Suggested Resources
“Benefiting from creative activity: The positive relationships between creative activity, recovery experiences, and performance-related outcomes”. Eschleman, Madsen, Alarcon and Barelka; Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology; Volume 87, Issue 3, pages 579–598, September 2014
Tips to Turn Your Hobby into a Business
Jeremy S. joined Empathia in 2007 as Manager, Client Care Services and currently serves as Account Manager/Sales Consultant. He is also a certified wellness and tobacco cessation coach. Jeremy has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Organizational Development. Prior to joining Empathia, he spent 14 years in the EAP industry in a variety of managerial/leadership roles at another behavioral healthcare organization. Jeremy enjoys reading, photography, music and spending time with his wife and daughters.
