How to Find a New Favorite Hobby

It’s easy to get into a rut when work, school, obligations, and household routines demand so much of our time. But research shows that engaging in fun or challenging hobbies have the power to make us happier and healthier. We all need a few good outlets to help clear our heads, lower stress levels, build a larger social network, and change our perspectives. Maybe it’s time for a new hobby – but where do you start?

1. Think about how you want to feel. Hobbies offer us an escape where we can calm down. But what type of feeling you do want from your new hobby? A fresh mental challenge? Distraction? Relaxation? Or maybe you’re looking to build community or local connections. Deciding which affects you want to experience can help you zero in on your optimal type.
2. Start small. If you think you might like to begin boating, you don’t have to go out and buy a yacht. Dial back and explore ways to start down the path, like knot-tying, learning the parts of a boat, etc
3. Remember. Think back to your childhood. Which sorts of things did you like to enjoy when there were few demands on your time or energy?
4. Fight the urge to feel guilty. Exploring a new hobby and investing time in it should add value to your life – not make you feel bad. It’s okay to give yourself permission to take a break and invest yourself in something that makes you happier or healthier.

Once you’ve taken a little mental journey to discover what you want from a new hobby, here are some ways to find ideas or learn online.

1. Chess. If you’ve always had an interest in this classic boardgame, maybe it’s time to give it a whirl. With online chess communities like Chessable or chess.com you can find beginner-friendly tutorials or dive deep.
2. Learn a new language. DuoLingo is a great way to learn and play. You can choose from 38 languages including Spanish, French, Korean and more.
3. Explore documentaries. We might not think about movies as a great “hobby” but documentaries are educational by nature and can help you explore topics, history or themes you may have never considered before… plus, you can find loads for free online. Here’s Lifehacker’s list of the 50 Best Documentaries Of All Time that will Change Your Life.
4. Yoga. Not only is yoga friendly on your budget, it’s good for your mind and body. Here are some useful online tips for beginners.
5. Learn to dance. Everyone can benefit from the physical release of moving to a good tune. Not sure where to start learning about dance? Here are the basics of salsa dancing.

If none of these ideas spark your interest, there are loads of free options in your community that can be found on Facebook or by exploring local sites, like mentoring, joining a local sports team, or volunteering -- plus many hobbies you can do at home like stargazing, teaching your pet a trick, collecting something new, or listening to podcasts. Still not sure what you want to try? Here are 27 ideas that are cheap and fun.