The Case for Prioritising Hobbies

Indulge me while I make the case for including hobbies in your goals and self-care routines for the remainder of the year. While many of us aspire to career growth, improved health, and lifestyle changes such as exercising or adopting healthier eating habits (definitely great things to set goals around), I urge you to channel some of that goal-setting energy into cultivating hobbies.

Why, you might ask? In my work with elders in aged care, a significant aspect involves helping them rediscover lost hobbies, establish new ones, or adapt materials and technologies to enable the continued enjoyment of their favourite pastimes. Elders engaged in hobbies exhibit higher levels of wellbeing, an uplifted mood, and enhanced pain management. A prevalent favourite among those I care for is knitting or stitching—an activity that not only exercises the brain but also maintains muscle coordination and fine motor skills, crucial as we age. Beyond the physical benefits, this hobby fosters positive mindset traits like persistence, self-satisfaction, and a sense of contribution. Sharing creations and expertise enhances social wellbeing, combating loneliness and isolation.

Now, you might be thinking, "I'm not into knitting; why does this matter to me?" I assure you, your chosen hobby can similarly boost your physical and mental wellbeing. If you’re like me and not a disciplined gym attendee, consider auditing your hobbies. Do any of them offer comparable physical benefits to a gym session? You might find it surprisingly easier to make your hobby time a consistent habit than committing to the gym.

Research indicates that engaging in hobbies often leads to a flow state, which provides an opportunity to quiet mental chatter by immersing ourselves in a task, and experience heightened enjoyment. In an era where employers value creative thinking skills, various hobbies can train your brain to flex its creative muscles.

So, my invitation to you this year is to carve out dedicated time for hobbies in your week. Wondering which hobbies? The choice is a personal one. If you need assistance in making your selection and you’re open to it, ask yourself the following questions:

• What do I remember enjoying as a child (before anyone told me I wasn’t good at it)?

• What sparks your curiosity?

• What benefits would I like to cultivate in my life (e.g. improved physical, mental or cognitive fitness, social connection, connection with nature, increased creativity)?

• What’s the thing that when you think about doing it, makes you feel nervous (not nervous in a fearful way, but in a butterflies in the stomach, excited way)?

Whether it’s learning how to play the Theremin, shoot arrows while riding horseback, or crochet a tea cosy, there’s a hobby out there waiting for you to adopt and reap the benefits.