4 Things to Weigh When You Kickstart a New Hobby
Embarking on a new hobby can be a transformative and enriching experience.
A study conducted in 2016 shows that the cortisol levels of around 75% of participants were lowered after making art.
A hobby a day keeps the doldrums away.
— Phyllis McGinley
There is no boundary to hobbies.
You can try restaurant hopping. You can go salsa dancing. You can learn latte art.
Whether your hobby is athletic, academic, or more imaginative, it counts because it is something you consider noteworthy and comforting.
Whether aspiring for an innovative doorway, a prospect to explore your fascinations, or a path to evolve, a hobby unlocks gates to personal shift and self-discovery.
Starting a hobby is easy, but sticking with it is the real game.
So, it would be best if you acknowledged a few things when you start a hobby, irrespective of its nature, to keep you going after it again the next day.
1/ Understand your interests.
Do your research.
The first step in starting a new hobby is identifying your interests and passions.
Reflect on the activities that fetch you joy, the topics that intrigue you, or the crafts you’ve always wanted to develop. Consider your personality, choices, and the things that empower you.
This self-reflection will help you choose a hobby that aligns with your passions and uplifts you in the long run.
Once you have a vision of your interests, conduct thorough research to explore various hobby options.
Read books, browse online platforms, watch tutorial videos, or join social media communities.
This will give you insights into different pursuits, their prerequisites, and the aids available to understand, learn and practice them.
It will also assist you in checking your preferences and uncovering a hobby that echoes with you.
2/ Baby steps will take you far.
Start small and set achievable goals.
Break down your hobby into manageable steps or milestones, allowing yourself to progress gradually.
This will stop you from getting overwhelmed and support you in building a solid basis for your chosen hobby.
For example, if you’re interested in a handstand, watch a few lessons on YouTube, understand the muscles or body parts you must train, and start your practice with your living room sofa.
Or, if you like painting, start with uncomplicated sketches and progress towards more elaborate artwork.
You may need specific resources or tools. Research and list the necessary supplies and equipment required to get started.
Always consider if you can borrow, rent, lease, or buy these tools within your budget.
Acquiring the right resources will enable you to fully immerse yourself in your new hobby and enjoy the learning process.
3/ Seek and build learning opportunities.
Keep the motor running.
Enhance your skills and knowledge in your chosen hobby. Learn more about it.
Consider taking classes or workshops in person or online to receive guidance from experienced instructors.
Join local hobbyist groups or communities to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion.
Learning from others can provoke valuable insights and a supportive network as you delve deeper into your pursuit.
Also, establishing a dedicated space for your hobby can greatly enhance your experience.
It doesn’t have to be large; even a small corner in your bedroom can serve as your creative sanctuary.
Set up your supplies, organize your tools, and create an environment that fosters focus and inspiration.
You will show up at your dedicated space and remain consistent.
4/ Embrace the Learning Curve.
Please do not shy away from it. This is where the real magic happens.
Beginning a new hobby is an invitation to grow your comfort zone, stimulate your creativity, and indulge in the joy of learning.
It often involves a learning curve, and welcoming this process is important.
There’s always a learning curve, where you’ve got to learn what your subject is all about. — Brad Gilbert
Be patient with yourself and understand that mastery takes time.
Choose to make a mistake over doing nothing.
Learn from your failure. It adds value to your journey to learn something new.
Hugging the learning curve will foster resilience and perseverance in other aspects of your life.
In the end…
Make it fun because you can quit anytime you want. But would it be worth it to let it go?
Understand that progress may be slow sometimes, and you may face challenges.
The expedition of starting a hobby is as important as the destination. Embrace the process, celebrate small victories, and find joy in learning and improving.
So, go onwards, explore, and let your new hobby be an origin of inspiration, fulfillment, and personal transition for the hereafter.
Bon Voyage!
