How to find a new hobby to try

With COVID-19 restrictions lingering and remote work the norm, most of us will spend a lot of time at home this fall and winter. But with this lifestyle shift, it can become difficult to separate work and pleasure. Finding a new hobby to try can help reduce stress, and improve sleep and happiness. In fact, a recent study found that those engaged in hobbies had a 30% lower chance of experiencing depression. But how do you choose the right hobby? Here are some tried and true methods for finding a new hobby you’ll love.

[Photo Credit: sodawhiskey]

1. Explore your neighbourhood hobby shop

Maybe you’ve tried googling ‘how do I find a hobby I love’ and fell deep into the rabbit hole that is the Internet. One easy way to find a new hobby to try is to move away from the screen and visit your local hobby shop. Most neighbourhoods have one, and they can be fascinating places. You might discover a love for unique styles of needlework, reading tarot cards, or collecting miniatures. A hobby shop is a great place to find at-home activities and lockdown hobby ideas to keep you engaged.

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2. Hobby in tandem
 
Being mindful of your downtime isn’t always easy, but having an accountability buddy may help. Find a friend who wants to learn a new language together, and help keep each other motivated. Download a language app with a friend and practice together over video calls or find your local language school. Set a goal, such as an international trip you’ll take together where you’ll get to show off your new language skills.

3. Think back to childhood passions
 
Think back to what brought you joy as a kid. Did you play soccer, or take dance or music lessons? Often, we discover passions early on and then abandon them in adulthood as life gets ‘too busy.’  If you don’t remember, browse old photos, or ask your family. Often, the best hobby is the one that brings out your inner child.

4. Read a memoir from a passionate hobbyist

If you feel stuck when thinking about which new hobby to try, consider finding inspiration in other peoples’ experiences. Explore the ‘Memoirs’ section of the bookstore and pick up a first-person account from an inspiring photographer, numerologist, or mushroom forager, just to name a few possibilities. Reading is one of the most accessible lockdown hobby ideas — and if you prefer a recommendation, there are many bookish blogs that offer round-ups of the best memoirs. If nothing grabs you, head on over to the ‘Crafts & Hobbies’ section for more potential sources of inspiration.

5. Make a vision board

For a more hands-on project, try creating a vision board full of images and short texts that have special meaning to you. Your local craft stores will have plenty of fun collage materials to help with this task. Vision boarding can be a meaningful way to reflect on your dreams and ideas for the future, while also letting you relax and enjoy the benefits of creative expression. If you’re drawn to beach scenes and crashing waves, perhaps surfing could be your undiscovered passion.

6. Look to your talented friends

Ideally, finding a new hobby to try will reduce your screen time. If you’ve admired some talents your friends have flaunted on Instagram, why not reach out? People love to share their passions, especially in today’s collaboration-over-competition culture. Try proposing a casual guitar lesson or cooking session in your free time. You might be surprised by what blossoms.