The one unexpected thing successful people have that you may not
Walter Dill Scott, who pioneered the use of psychology in advertising, has been known to advise his readers on the need for this.
Winston Churchill said to find one of these that is “so absorbing that when engaged, business is banished from the mind.”
It’s a hobby.
“Broadly speaking, human beings may be divided into three classes: those who are toiled to death, those who are worried to death and those who are bored to death.
To be really happy and really safe, one ought to have at least two or three hobbies, and they must all be real. It is no use starting late in life to say: “I will take an interest in this or that.” Such an attempt only aggravates the strain of mental effort. — Winston Churchill
I’ve never really liked the word hobby myself because it conjures up images of embroidery or coin collecting, which I’d probably never do.
In our progress-driven culture, it seems as though we have made hobbies a thing of the past.
Something that people were inclined to have, but no longer.
There is a tendency to want to change any hobby of today into a side hustle or something you do to improve your work or career.
But hobbies are important because of how they can improve your work while still having nothing to do with work at all.
While it’s common to understand the need for balance in life, it’s important not to conflate resting or doing occasional fun things with the true reset you get from a hobby.
Hobbies are different in that they are consistent, restorative activities that you choose to do because you enjoy them and there are a variety of healthy benefits.
Studies show that the more you engage in hobbies or creative activities outside of work, the better your performance will be. It can improve your critical reasoning skills, stamina, and even interpersonal relations.
Assistant professor of psychology at San Francisco State University, Kevin Eschleman stated that the more you engage in creative activities the better you’ll do at work and even be more likely to go out of your way to help others.
There are a few different types of hobbies, and you will benefit from rounding out your list with one from each category for optimal benefit.
An Educational Hobby
Finding a hobby that can expand your mind is a worthwhile pursuit. Some examples would be reading, learning a language, or taking a class.
If you keep learning in areas that interest you, you’ll stay engaged and the knowledge you gain will help you in unexpected ways.
Spotlight: Chess
Chess can teach you many life skills. Here are some examples according to Chess.com.
How to win and lose
It helps with focus
It helps to realize consequences for actions
It teaches patience
It teaches problem-solving skills
It exercises both sides of the brain. When playing chess, your brain will be challenged to exercise logic, develop pattern recognition, make decisions both visually and analytically, and test your memory.
An Active Hobby
Physical activity does a body good. But an active hobby needs to remain enjoyable, not feel like a duty.
In addition to whatever your current exercise regimen is, add in something physical that you do completely for fun. Ice skating, rollerblading, or hiking, are all easy to work into your life as healthy activities.
Spotlight: Dancing
Here are some reasons why you should make dancing a hobby.
Improves your strength and flexibility
Improves your posture
Increases stamina
It’s fun!
A Social Hobby
Having relationships is critical in life. It’s easy to get so busy with your work and your obligations that your social calendar is starting to get cobwebs on it.
Make it a point to sprinkle in some social hobbies throughout the month. Having a regular game night, creating a dinner club, or taking on a volunteering project helps keep your mind and soul healthy with social interactions.
Spotlight: Going to live theater
Since we don’t often peel our eyes off of our screens, the theater is a great way to relax and also be social with friends. Here are some reasons this is a good social hobby.
No technology
Expand your mind, discuss the story and spark great conversation
Relieve stress
Evoke emotional responses
A Creative Hobby
Creative pursuits pay off in more ways than one. Not only are you firing up your creative juices, but you’re also improving brain function and emotional expression.
Activities like writing, drawing, painting, or photography have been shown to improve physical and mental well-being.
Spotlight: Journaling or Creative Writing
Whether you’re new to writing or journaling or it’s been a part of your routine, there are benefits to doing it consistently and making it a great hobby.
Makes you a better communicator
Expands your vocabulary
Allows for free expression
Boosts your memory
Don’t fear the word hobby, or think that it’s only for the bored or retired. On the contrary, the right ones can complement your life in many ways, especially when you are feeling busy and stressed.
Do your best to take some time for a hobby. Try to branch out and look for one that doesn’t necessarily look like your day-to-day life.
You’ll be glad you did.
🎉P.S. — Wanna know how to get on track with a daily self-care practice in midlife? Grab my Self-Care Checklist and Daily Planner to get started today!
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