Finding a hobby can feel surprisingly hard, especially when you’re unsure where to start.
When you’re a kid, falling into new pastimes is a natural thing, but that’s not the case once you’re all grown up. Maybe nothing sounds exciting, or you worry you won’t be good at it. The thing is, hobbies are meant to bring joy, not pressure. If you’re struggling to find things you enjoy doing, here are some tips that might point you in the right direction.
1. Think back to what you enjoyed as a child.
Childhood is often where our natural interests first appear. Did you love drawing, building things, or exploring outside? Revisiting those activities can remind you of what made you happy before life got busy. Sometimes, the best hobbies are the ones we left behind years ago.
2. Try a bunch of things — without commitment.
Don’t feel like you need to pick *the* perfect hobby right away. Dip your toes into several activities without any pressure. Attend a trial class, borrow some supplies, or watch a tutorial. Sampling different hobbies helps you figure out what sparks your interest before you invest time or money.
3. Identify what you need more of in your life.
Are you looking for relaxation, creativity, social interaction, or physical activity? Knowing what you’re missing can guide you toward the right hobby. For example, if you’re stressed, try painting or gardening. If you need movement, explore hiking or dancing. Aligning hobbies with your needs keeps them fulfilling.
4. Consider your current lifestyle and schedule.
If your days are packed, a hobby that requires hours of dedication might not be realistic. Look for activities you can fit into small pockets of time, like journaling or knitting. If you have more free time, you could explore something more involved, like learning an instrument or photography.
5. Ask friends what they enjoy.
Sometimes, the best inspiration comes from those around us. Ask friends or family about their hobbies and why they love them. You might discover something new that sparks your interest. Plus, joining a friend in their hobby can make starting out less intimidating and more fun.
6. Think about activities that energise you.
Source: Unsplash Pay attention to what makes you feel excited or alive. Do you love being outdoors, solving puzzles, or making things with your hands? Hobbies that energise you will feel less like a chore and more like a reward. Follow what naturally draws your attention and curiosity.
7. Explore online communities or forums.
Websites like Reddit, Facebook groups, or hobby-specific forums are full of people sharing their interests. Browse these communities to see what other people are passionate about. You might stumble upon something you didn’t even know existed. Plus, these groups offer advice for beginners.
8. Don’t worry about being “good” at it.
Source: Unsplash Hobbies are meant to be enjoyable, not another source of pressure. It’s okay to be a beginner, or even stay a beginner forever. Let go of the need to be perfect and focus on the process. Some of the best hobbies are those you can do just for fun, no skill level required.
9. Look for free or low-cost ways to start.
Source: Unsplash Hobbies don’t have to be expensive. Many libraries, community centres, and online platforms offer free classes or resources. You can also borrow supplies or buy them second-hand to get started. Keeping it low-cost removes the financial risk of trying something new.
10. Combine your interests with something new.
Source: Unsplash If you already have an interest, see if you can blend it with another activity. Love reading? Try writing short stories. Enjoy cooking? Explore photography by snapping pics of your meals. Combining interests can lead to unique and satisfying hobbies that feel tailor-made for you.
11. Get inspired by social media or YouTube.
Source: Unsplash Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are goldmines for hobby inspiration. Watching other people enjoy their hobbies can spark ideas and make things seem more approachable. Look for tutorials, vlogs, or behind-the-scenes clips that break down different activities in a fun way.
12. Volunteer or join a community group.
Sometimes, hobbies grow out of giving back or connecting with other people. Volunteering at an animal shelter, helping with a local garden, or joining a community clean-up crew can lead to new passions. These experiences often come with a sense of purpose and fulfilment, too.
13. Be patient and keep exploring.
Finding the right hobby can take time, and that’s okay. If something doesn’t click, it doesn’t mean you failed — it just means there’s something better out there for you. Keep experimenting and stay open to new experiences. The perfect hobby often reveals itself when you least expect it.
