“Unproductive” Productivity
Source: Unsplash (@TEAcreativelife | Soo Chung)
In a fast-paced and constantly advancing technological world, genuine, priceless (literally) hobbies can become disregarded by many. Leisure time has slipped out of many people’s grasp, and unfortunately, hobbies have become increasingly less popular. Additionally, the aforementioned effervescent nature of technology has allowed for accessible entertainment at every moment of the day, making it even more uncommon to desire a tangible and unique pastime.
Despite the rapidly evolving world around us, individuals should—and need to—be able to take moments to themselves and do things they enjoy; activities can be a necessity, and even provide benefits. For example, in high school and postsecondary, students tend to engage in sports, extracurricular activities, clubs, and responsibilities in school organizations; these are hobbies that can impact their experience heavily in positive ways. However, upon graduation, these commitments may be abandoned, as students enter future stages of life and their careers. It is unfortunate that it seems these aspects of life are at the expense of one another.
However, that does not have to be the case! Although we become busier as we grow up, it is still possible to engage in hobbies, learn new things throughout different parts of life, and be able to share that joy with others along the journey as well. Here are just some ways to emulate that in your own life!
1. Becoming More Open to New Things
Due to a variety of reasons, it can be easy to shut ourselves off from new activities. For instance, feeling discouraged or even untalented at something can be enough of a reason to reject the idea before even trying. Additionally, a lack of motivation to pursue new activities can prevent many individuals from trying new things. Mental health struggles can also make it more difficult for people to continue hobbies.
It is important to separate skills from mere hobbies. Although upgrading skills is valuable in life, it is not the most important part of enjoying oneself through a hobby. The most important part of any hobby is that it is genuinely fulfilling. In recent times, there has been more value put on the productivity or skill level associated with a hobby, rather than just the pure enjoyment that can come from it. It is important to discover a hobby that you truly enjoy, in order to keep doing it regardless of its marketability. This encourages being open to new things and taking time to try them, even if you do not end up continuing them.
Trying new things can also broaden your perspective and help you understand the reasons why people might choose to pursue the hobbies that they do. According to some sources, trying new things is psychologically stimulating and causes dopamine release! With an optimistic mind, it can be exciting to take time and learn something new. Whether you remain a beginner or advance your skill set, all new experiences are rewarding in unique ways.
Becoming a more open and well-rounded person can also improve your self-confidence by providing new opportunities to connect with others and improve personal skills. New experiences are also important in shaping a person and their identity, and provide new ways of self-expression.
2. Taking Your Time
Taking your time does not only refer to the time spent on improving your skills, but also the process of introducing yourself to new activities. You can’t upgrade your skills without being a beginner first! Busy schedules often mean there’s less time for leisure, making it difficult or nearly impossible for many to indulge in their favourite or newfound pastimes. Hobbies do not require maximum time, but as much as necessary to relax and unwind, and most importantly, feel fulfilled.
It can be helpful to take a hobby step by step, instead of taking it on all at once. You do not need to spend large amounts of time devoted to the hobby, because even a few minutes spent wherever possible can be beneficial! Creating a schedule can help with time management of hobbies, and when done alongside a friend or family member, can provide further benefits! By working alongside another person, there are opportunities to learn from each other, participate in your hobby more effectively, and having a companion can make the experience more enjoyable as well. A hobby can provide the opportunity to connect with someone else in a positive way!
Hobbies can provide a sense of accomplishment, but only if you feel pride in your progress. It is important not to compare your skills with those of others who may be more experienced and practiced. The journey of learning something new is yours only.
Learning to be patient in a new endeavour is also important in everyday life. Improving your patience can make you a better decision-maker, an understanding person and more peaceful overall. Patience allows you to accept failures and grow from them, rather than be completely discouraged. This is also crucial to the discovery of hobbies because it takes time to improve when trying new activities, and frustration can arise. Being patient and forgiving with yourself is necessary. Unlike school or work, hobbies are not marked by concrete achievements, and they do not need to be. Hobbies should be measured by the happiness and fulfillment they bring. It also may take a few attempts to find something you like doing. Having an open mind, and persevering when trying new things can leave you with an irreplaceable new pastime. As previously mentioned, the most important part of your hobby is enjoying it!
3. The Importance of Unwinding
School and work are two of the main reasons why our schedules and lives can become busy and hectic, and it is precisely then that we need to find time to unwind to prevent us from burning out. Relaxing and unwinding from the stressful commitments of the day can easily be disregarded, and the busier you are, the more your body and mind probably require a break! Hobbies are undermined as beneficial ways of relaxation and peacefulness in the midst of stress and the unpredictability of life.
Taking time out of the day to engage in hobbies for even a few minutes encourages self-care. Whether it be painting, photography, baking, yoga, or going on a daily jog, implementing activities for personal fulfillment in your day is significant for self-development.
Unwinding and taking time for yourself can serve as motivation for hobbies. It can be difficult to remember the importance of mental health or stress relief at times, but when you find a hobby that suits you and your life, it can be an easy way to relax. According to some studies, there is a noticeable decrease in cortisol levels in those who participate in hobbies. Even if you try something new just to take a break from the responsibilities of life, it is engaging and fulfilling for the mind! This is one of the many reasons that they are beneficial.
Everyone deserves a chance to take time for themselves, and how self-care looks varies from person to person! The vast world of hobbies can provide a new endeavour for everyone. Even if right now does not seem like the time to try something new, this can serve as a reminder to indulge in some form of self-care anyway. Whether you take a long bath, take some time to relax in bed, watch your favourite movie, or invite some friends over, every form of self-care is a step towards preserving your mental and physical well-being.
Remember, hobbies are outlets, a way for you to learn something new, and a method of rest, relaxation, and most importantly, happiness. They don’t need to be immediately perfect, and neither do you!