Rediscovering the Power of Hobbies
Embracing creativity, relaxation, and presence in everyday life.
What is a Hobby?
A hobby is an activity done for pleasure or relaxation - something we do simply because we enjoy it.
Here’s how different dictionaries define it:
an activity done regularly in one's leisure time for pleasure
a pursuit outside one's regular occupation, engaged in especially for relaxation
an activity that someone does for pleasure when they are not working
an activity or interest pursued for pleasure or relaxation and not as a main occupation
As kids, hobbies fill our days effortlessly.
But as we grow older, they start to disappear. More responsibilities. More work. Less time.
Hobbies often get pushed aside in the pursuit of productivity, accomplishment, and achievement.
But hobbies matter.
They bring joy, creativity, curiosity, presence, and rest.
Most importantly, they remind us that life isn’t just about what we produce - it’s a gift to be enjoyed.
Managing Misconceptions
Now that we know what a hobby is, let’s tackle some common misconceptions and clear up what a hobby isn’t. I know I’ve believed many of these for far too long!
"Hobbies are a waste of time."
Actually, hobbies offer huge benefits - reducing stress, improving memory and focus, boosting neuroplasticity, lowering blood pressure, and even providing a sense of purpose and connection.
"You have to have a million hobbies - or just one."
Nope! You can have as many as you want. Maybe you rotate through a few, or maybe you stick with one for years. Whatever fits your personality and season of life is perfect.
"Hobbies are expensive."
Some can be, but there are plenty of free or low-cost hobbies. A few of my favorites:
Free: Walking, journaling, phone photography, learning a language (Duolingo), yoga, library books, dancing.
Low-cost: Drawing, baking, puzzles, games, calligraphy, biking.
"Hobbies take too much time."
Only if you want them to! Some hobbies are quick resets, like reading a few pages, deep breathing, stretching, taking a short walk, journaling for three minutes, or dancing to a song.
"You have to be creative to have hobbies."
I have heard too many people in my life tell me that they aren’t creative, and I simply don’t buy it. We were made in the image of an abundantly creative God, which means there’s creativity inside all of us - we just need the right outlet.
"You have to do it all the time."
Nope! A hobby doesn’t need a schedule - unless that is what works best for you! If you run twice a month, running is your hobby. If you only read on Saturdays, reading is your hobby. No one is keeping score!
"Hobbies need to be turned into work."
If you monetize a hobby, that’s great - but it’s no longer just a hobby. Hobbies exist outside of work to bring joy, rest, and fun.
"You have to be good at it."
Actually, some of the best hobbies are the ones you aren’t good at (at least at first). They help your brain learn, build perseverance, and give you a sense of accomplishment as you improve.
"Hobbies are just for kids."
Aren’t we all just grown-up kids pretending we have it all figured out? Hobbies are for everyone.
"Hobbies aren’t productive."
They actually are - but in a way that isn’t about output. The value of hobbies comes from doing something simply because you love it - which is a gift to your mind, body, and soul.
A New Series…
One of my biggest goals this year is to stop putting fun and rest at the bottom of my to-do list. I want to be more present, take care of my well-being, and simply enjoy life more.
And wonderfully enough, one of the best ways to do that is by prioritizing hobbies - both the ones I already love and the ones I’ve never tried before.
That’s why I’m starting a new series. Every few weeks, I’ll share a “hobby spotlight” - where I explore a hobby I’ve been experimenting with, rediscovering, or diving into.
My hope is that this series keeps me intentional about embracing new experiences and making time for play, while also inspiring you to do the same.
What is your favorite hobby, and what is a hobby you have always wanted to try?
I'd love to hear what hobbies you’ve always wanted to try or the ones you’re currently loving - leave a comment below, message me, or respond to this email!
Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this newsletter, it would mean so much to me if you would share it with a friend!
Take care,
Caroline
I’ve always wanted to get into clay art, making jewelry or egg dishes, and jewelry dishes. Stuff like that! I’m hopeful to pursue that this year.
Beautiful reminder! I think the misconception I’ve been believing most is that I have to turn it into something I can monetize. Hobbies are really for refreshing the spirit. I think with social media, hobbies have become brands and it feels less okay for one’s hobbies to change or evolve.