Taking A Moment To Breathe

How to make time for your hobbies and interests.

Do you ever find yourself asking, "How can I make time for the things I love to do?"

Whether that means painting or going out for a run, the list of possible hobbies is endless and looks different for every individual. Often times we can become overwhelmed by how busy life can get. Sometimes it might feel like days blend together and have the same patterns because of work, chores, and responsibilities. Finding the balance between your work life and your personal life can be challenging, and it can make it feel impossible to do the hobbies you enjoy. In this post, we will be walking through the different ways you can overcome these challenges, finding a better balance between the dynamics of your everyday life.

According to UCLA Health, engaging in a hobby can boost your mental well-being, improve your cognitive function, and reduce the risk of chronic disease.

A good place to start would be breaking down what an average day looks like for you. Is there time you spend on your phone while at home? Instead of seeking out social media, consider using that time to spend doing your preferred hobby. You can even start small, setting aside at least 10-20 minutes of your day to decompress while doing your activity.

Consistency is key. What time of the day works best for you? Try integrating your hobby into your morning, afternoon, or your evening routines every day. If every day seems to be too much, choose specific days that you think might work in your schedule and block out the time to do your hobby on those days every week.

Consider joining a group. Schedule a day that you can meet with your friends to work on your hobbies together, or look online to see if there is a group in your community that shares your interests and if they have any weekly gatherings you could attend.

Create a set space for your hobby. Making a dedicated space for your hobby can help encourage you to reach for it. If exercising is a part of your hobby, consider laying out your workout clothes in advance in a place where you can easily see them. If your hobby uses materials, consider placing them in an open area you walk past frequently.

Being able to prioritize time for your interests can be very beneficial for your mental health. Using some of these key starting points can help you create stepping stones for a more balanced dynamic in your work life and personal life. Being consistent in your hobbies allows you to regularly express yourself and is an excellent outlet for the stressors that life can bring.