Why Should We Have a Hobby?
Our daily lives usually follow a routine. Meeting our basic needs in order to survive naturally becomes our priority, which is why we spend most of our lives working. People choose their careers at an age when they don't yet fully know themselves, so very few truly enjoy their work for a lifetime. On the contrary, after a certain point our jobs can become stressful and wear us out both physically and mentally. On the other hand, our social relationships aren't always very enjoyable either. These relationships also fall into a routine, and sometimes they continue only out of obligation. In collectivist cultures like ours, social settings come with a lot of responsibilities, and this can push us into stress. When you tell yourself, “I just want to have a good time and get away from my stress for a while,” you can take it as a sign that you need a hobby.
So why should you have a hobby? How can a hobby benefit you?
1) Self-Confidence
Hobbies build self-confidence. Learning new things and mastering certain skills boosts our self-confidence.
2) Creativity
Many hobbies call for creativity, and as you improve at a hobby, you also bring your creativity to life. Bringing your potential into your hobby through new ideas gives you a different kind of joy.
3) Stress Reduction
Directing your mind toward something you like and enjoy doing, and stepping away from your other worries for a while, significantly reduces your stress.
4) Socializing
Meeting people who share similar hobbies, chatting about common interests, or taking up hobbies that are social in themselves increases your opportunities to socialize and helps you form close friendships, whatever your age.
5) Personal Growth
It's only natural that through your hobby you'll learn different things and build up new knowledge and experience. You may well see growth you never expected in your work, your social life and your emotional well-being.
Malik Kubilay ÇADIRCIOĞLU, Psychotherapist
