At the start of every year, many people make a list of goals to strive for in the upcoming months. These goals often include aspirations such as getting a promotion, eating healthier, and saving more money. However, in recent times, there has been a shift towards including hobbies in these lists of goals. People are realizing the importance of building a more meaningful life outside of office hours, and hobbies play a significant role in achieving this.
The trend of incorporating hobbies into goal-setting is not limited to individuals; it is also reflected in popular culture. Platforms like TikTok are filled with videos of young women trying out new activities and exploring different hobbies. Search terms like ‘hobbies in your 20s’ and ‘hobbies to try in 2025’ are frequently trending, indicating a growing interest in pursuing leisure activities.
While the idea of turning hobbies into businesses and making money from them is enticing, it is essential to remember the true purpose of a hobby. A hobby is defined as an activity done regularly in one’s leisure time for pleasure. The key word here is pleasure – the primary motivation behind engaging in a hobby should be enjoyment, not financial gain.
In a society where the pressure to be productive and efficient is ever-present, it can be challenging to justify spending time on activities that do not have a clear or beneficial outcome. However, as burnout coach Anna K Schaffner points out, hobbies serve as a form of rebellion against the productivity mindset. They allow us to break free from the constant need to perform, produce, or generate income and simply enjoy the moment.
Moreover, hobbies have been shown to have numerous mental and physical health benefits. Countless studies have demonstrated the positive impact of hobbies on brain function, stress levels, and overall well-being. Engaging in a hobby can reduce feelings of loneliness, boost creativity, and provide a sense of fulfillment that goes beyond monetary rewards.
To fully embrace the joy of hobbies, it is important to let go of the pressure to excel or monetize them. Instead, focus on what makes you feel alive and brings you genuine pleasure. Whether it’s painting, gardening, playing an instrument, or any other activity, the goal should be to immerse yourself in the experience and find joy in the process.
In conclusion, hobbies are a valuable and essential part of a well-rounded life. They offer a reprieve from the demands of everyday life and provide an opportunity for self-expression, relaxation, and personal growth. So, the next time you find yourself pursuing a hobby, remember to savor the moment, embrace the joy it brings, and let go of any expectations of turning it into a side hustle. After all, the true value of a hobby lies in the happiness and fulfillment it brings, not in its potential for financial gain.
