This post was developed via a partnership with BetterHelp.
When you think of hobbies, you may think of things such as hiking or crocheting. The truth is that almost anything can be a hobby, and almost everyone has at least one!
Not only are there many types of hobbies, but there are many reasons why we should all have a hobby. Hobbies aren’t just post-retirement activities; they are activities that can boost your mood and your overall well-being at any age!
Before you learn how hobbies can improve your health, you have to learn more about what a hobby is and how to find one perfect for you. Finding a hobby doesn’t have to be as daunting as it sounds. By finding a hobby you love, you can reap the many benefits.
What Is A Hobby
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, a hobby is “a pursuit outside one’s regular occupation engaged in especially for relaxation.” In other words, it’s an activity or practice that you seek out to bring yourself joy and peace.
As stated previously, a person’s hobby can be anything that pleases them. The following are just a few examples of popular hobbies:
- Swimming
- Bicycling
- Reading
- Writing
- Wine Tasting
- Online Gaming
- Gardening
- Painting
- Video Editing
- Marketing
The list goes on and on. You may also have many questions about hobbies such as: Why are hobbies important? Do I have a hobby? How do I find one for me? What are the benefits?
Learning more about what a hobby is can help you better understand its importance and how it can benefit your life.
If you need more advice on common issues, consider reading the many articles provided by BetterHelp. They cover a wide array of subjects that could benefit you and your questions!
Why Hobbies Are Important
There are many reasons why hobbies are important. They enable us to meet new people, relieve stress, and learn new skills and information!
When you have a hobby, it often helps you branch out of your comfort zone and expands your social circles. Many hobbies involve more than just yourself. For example, bird watching is a hobby that can be enjoyed alone and with fellow bird watchers.
Some hobbies require you to interact with other people. These hobbies may include baseball, adult softball, weightlifting competitions, or marathons. Hobbies are a great opportunity to make new friends.
Hobbies also help alleviate stress. When participating in an activity that you love, you are more likely to feel relaxed and calm. Oftentimes, work and responsibilities can weigh us down. Hobbies can help people take their minds off these life worries.
Lastly, having a hobby can help you learn new skills and information. Many activities can feel challenging at first, so you may have to seek guidance from seasoned individuals. For example, someone who loves fishing may take this opportunity to learn more about baits, lures, and fishing techniques from outside resources. You are sure to learn more with any hobby!
What Are The Benefits Of Having A Hobby
In addition to their importance, hobbies also come with many benefits! Hobbies can teach you valuable habits pertinent to everyday life, alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety, and boost your physical and mental health.
Some valuable habits that your hobby may teach you are creativity, problem-solving, and time management. Hobbies often come with small, fixable problems. For example, you may run into problems while you are playing an online game or a physical game of chess. Hobbies often help you improve your creativity and problem-solving skills.
Once you find a hobby you love, you may rearrange your schedule to make time for it. By reorganizing your day to fit responsibilities and downtime, you can learn better time management skills.
Hobbies can also help you alleviate any feelings of stress or anxiety. If you are experiencing stress about work-related issues or household responsibilities, your hobby can help! With your hobby, you can take your mind off of anxious things and to something you enjoy. It can also help you practice mindfulness techniques.
Lastly, many hobbies can also help you improve your physical and mental health! Physical hobbies such as running, yoga, and exercise competitions can keep your body healthy. While hobbies such as meditation, reading, and journaling are good for your mental health.
How To Find A Hobby You Love
It’s never too late to find something that is perfect for you. There are a few ways you can find a hobby that you love. Consider activities that you already enjoy or have always been curious about. For example, if you love the ocean, you could try surfing and explore some of the best beaches to surf. Afterward, you can even relocate to a place with great surfing spots to enjoy it all year round.
Try As Many As You Want
You don’t have to pick a hobby and stick to it for the rest of your life. In fact, some people’s favorite hobby is trying new hobbies! If something piques your interest, try it out, and if it doesn’t feel enjoyable move on to the next one. Try this method until you find one you love.
When Do You Feel The Happiest?
When you were a child, were you the happiest when you were curled up in a big chair with a good book? Or is it when you are traveling to a new place you’ve never been? Think about when you feel the happiest and find a related hobby to that activity.
Do It With A Friend
Find someone equally excited about finding a hobby, and go on this adventure together. We often feel more confident when we have the help of a family member or friend. With the extra confidence, you may be more likely to run your first 5k or plant your first rosebush. You don’t have to find your hobby alone!
