Find a Hobby You'll Actually Enjoy

Most hobby lists start with the hobby. This guide starts with you, because the right hobby is the one that fits the life you already have.

I have always been a very busy person. Raising a large family and owning a business can be daunting for anyone, so I have always made sure I had a way to take a break from the children, the work, the responsibilities and everything else that spins around in my world.

Running came first. I was always a walker and loved walks in nature. One early morning, walking with a friend, her dog took off after something in the forest. In our panic we chased after it, and it was a long, hard run. When we finally caught up and had the dog back on its leash, we both said the same thing: that was exhilarating. I had never felt like that before.

Running, or any kind of exercise, is a great way to settle your nerves and escape for a while from everyday routines. Over the years I have found other ways to spend my leisure time too. I discovered chalk painting, and I am always on the lookout for an old piece of furniture that needs my touch. And once, while watching a motivational speaker I follow, I saw her create a vision board for the coming year using a technique I had never seen. I loved it, looked into it, and found neurographic art: a drawing technique that combines art, mindfulness and personal reflection. My desk is full of it now.

There are so many ways to find a hobby that brings enjoyment and peace. That was my aim. Yours may lean more towards adventure, so take a look at the guide A Little Adventure Close to Home.

Think back to what you enjoyed as a child, a teenager or a young adult. Drawing, dancing, building things, being outdoors, reading under a tree, cooking for friends. Write down three things. They are clues, not commitments.

Some of us recharge with people. Some of us recharge alone. Neither is better. Ask yourself which you want more of right now.

• Company: a choir, a walking or running group, a class, a book club, volunteering.
• Quiet: sketching, gardening, knitting, photography, writing, puzzles, giving an old piece of furniture new life.

Be honest about both. Many good hobbies cost very little: walking, library books, drawing with a pencil, birdwatching. If you are not sure you will stick with something, borrow or rent the equipment before you buy it.

Then pick a time you can actually protect. One hour a week is plenty to start.

• Hands: making something you can hold, like baking, pottery, sewing or woodwork.
• Head: learning something, like a language, history or an instrument.
• Heart: something that connects you, like volunteering, singing with others or mentoring.

Look at your answers and choose one activity to try once. Not a course, not a commitment. One try. Afterwards, ask yourself one question: would I like to do that again? If yes, book the next one. If no, cross it off with no guilt and try the next idea.