How to find a hobby as an adult

Between working, parenting, and just trying to catch your breath, finding a hobby might seem like the last thing on your mind. But having a hobby isn't just fun. It's also a fantastic way to unwind, expand your interests, and meet new people. Here’s how.

Understand your interests

The first step to finding a new hobby is understanding what you're genuinely interested in. You can do this by reflecting on past activities that have brought you joy. Maybe you enjoyed painting as a child or loved hiking during college. Whatever it is, let your past passions guide you toward your new hobby.

Try out different hobbies

Once you've identified your interests, it's time to explore. Try out a few different hobbies. You might surprise yourself by discovering a passion for something completely unexpected. From gardening to coding to dancing, the world of hobbies is vast and exciting.

Join a hobby community

Finding a hobby is often more fun when you're not doing it alone. Consider joining a hobby community where you can share your experiences, learn from others, and even make new friends. Ask your family, friends, or neighbors for recommendations. Check local recreation centers, neighborhood associations, community colleges, or church groups. There are also plenty of online communities, such as Meetup, where you can connect with like-minded hobby enthusiasts.

Frequently asked questions

Q: I'm busy. How can I find time for a hobby?

A: Start small. Dedicate a few minutes each day or an hour a week to your hobby. As you get more comfortable, you can gradually increase this time.

Q: I don't know what my interests are. How can I find a hobby?

A: Experiment with a few different things. Explore various hobbies until you find something that sparks joy.

Q: How can I afford to start a new hobby?

A: Many hobbies don't require a huge upfront investment. For example, joining a weekly game like Bingo or Mahjong is often only a few dollars per session. Drawing only requires paper and pencil to figure out if you want to learn more. Start with what you have and slowly build up your hobby supplies as needed.

Q: I tried a few hobbies, but none of them stuck. What should I do?

A: That's okay! Exploration is the idea. Not every hobby will be a perfect fit. Continue exploring different activities, and remember that the goal is enjoyment, not perfection.

Q: Can my hobby turn into a career?

A: Many people have turned their passions into profitable careers. But the beauty of hobbies is they’re primarily for personal enjoyment.

Q: Do hobbies need to be productive?

A: The primary purpose of a hobby is to create space for relaxation, enjoyment, or self-expression. It doesn't necessarily have to be productive.

Q: How can I motivate myself to consistently pursue my hobby?

A: Setting aside specific time for your hobby can help. Also, joining a community of people who share the same hobby can provide motivation and support.

Q: How can I balance my hobby with my responsibilities?

A: Start by dedicating a small amount of time to your hobby and adjust as necessary. It's all about finding a balance that works for you.

Q: Can I have more than one hobby?

A: Why not? Having multiple hobbies offers variety and can keep things interesting.

Q: What are some inexpensive hobbies to start with?

A: Some cost-effective hobbies include drawing, reading, jogging, gardening, meditation, or learning a new language online.

Q: How can hobbies benefit my mental health?

A: Hobbies can act as a form of stress relief, provide a sense of accomplishment, and enhance creativity, all of which can positively impact mental health.

Q: How can I involve my family or friends in my hobby?

A: You could suggest a group activity that aligns with your hobby, like a book club for reading or a nature walk for photography. Sharing your hobby can be a great way to bond with loved ones.

Finding a hobby as an adult might seem like an indulgence, but adding more joy and fulfillment to your life is important. Make time, even if it’s minutes, to explore your interests, try out different hobbies, join a community, and allow yourself to have fun. You deserve it!

Keep discovering! Visit the Greenlight Learning Center for more helpful tips and resources on creating your best life.