Article by: Maria Rocha, LMSW

“What do you like to do for fun?” How many times do we find this question on intake forms, dating websites, or getting-to-know-you exercises at work? But what do you do if you don’t have a hobby? Today we’ll talk about what exactly a hobby is, what it means for you, and how to find one that brings you joy.

What a Hobby Is and Isn’t

Merriam-Webster defines a hobby as, “a pursuit outside one’s regular occupation engaged in especially for relaxation” (Merriam-Webster, n.d.). This means that it’s outside of what you normally do for work (otherwise, what you’re really doing is just more work). Hobbies are meant to make you feel more in tune with yourself.

Hobbies help you feel present and at ease rather than distracted or numbed. For example, let’s talk about tech for a second. Social media makes it easy for us to connect with loved ones, read the news, and hear about the latest trends. Or who doesn’t love a good TV marathon? It’s also very easy to get caught scrolling on TikTok for way longer than originally intended or accidentally watch a whole season of Love Island in one night. How many times have you found yourself scrolling through social media without really paying attention to what’s on the screen? Or how about putting on a show you’ve been wanting to watch but reaching for your phone while it’s playing in the background?

This isn’t to say technological hobbies are wrong or dangerous. There can be too much of a good thing for just about any hobby. It’s helpful to examine why you engage in a given activity. Is it to explore or to numb?

In other words, hobbies are recreational activities we do for fun rather than to neglect our surroundings.They are good for our mental health and tools for self-growth.

My Hobby Makes Me Feel…

Get specific about how and what you want your hobby to make you feel. Do you want to feel increased physical strength? Consider weight-lifting or a sport. Do you want to feel relaxed? Maybe journaling or nature walks are for you. Do you want to feel creative? You might be interested in adult coloring books or clay work. Maybe you want your hobby to make you feel connected with others. Some community-oriented hobbies are book clubs, online gaming, and volunteering. Identify the feelings you want your hobby to give you, and use those activities to explore them.

Back to Basics

Think about what you enjoyed doing in childhood. Did you love running so fast you felt like you could fly? Maybe you were the best painter in your class. It’s been a while since anyone played that clarinet in the closet. Childhood is where we can find some of our most authentic joys. Maybe now is the time to rekindle some of that joy as an adult.

Trying Something New

On the other hand, you could try something totally new. Newness can be intimidating and vulnerable. “Everyone at this Pilates class can tell I’m a beginner.” “My painting doesn’t look as good as theirs.” “I’ll never be that good at roller skating, so I might as well stop trying.” Putting yourself out there can stir up feelings of shame and self-consciousness. But newness can also be the beginning of a brand new passion. The only way to guarantee it will never happen is to never start. Give tap dancing, karaoke singing, or, yes, even Pilates a try!

Keeping at It (Or Not!)

You have every right to explore! If a hobby doesn’t create joy or satisfaction, you can take it as a learning experience and keep looking. If you’re tempted to give up after the first try at something new, examine what the motivation is to do so. Is it because you feel embarrassed and vulnerable or is it because you did not resonate with the activity? By sticking with a hobby, you create a new habit. Hobbies can lead to new interests, new friends, and a new part of your life

To Sum Up…

• Hobbies are activities we engage in outside of work that help us connect to the world and to ourselves. 
• Pinpoint how and what you want your hobbies to make you feel. 
• Think back to what you liked to do in your childhood for hobby inspiration. 
• Don’t be afraid to try something new for a hobby. 
• Open yourself up to new opportunities, and recognize the hobbies that do and don’t resonate with you. 
• Hobbies are a great way to boost your mental health, make new friends, and find out more about yourself.

Hobbies are a cornerstone of our mental health. If you’re interested in discussing them with a mental health professional, click here to schedule an appointment with one of our providers.

Citations

Merriam-Webster. (n.d.). Hobby. In Merriam-Webster.com dictionary. Retrieved July 24, 2024, from https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hobby