With each new year that rolls around, we all get stuck in the habit of challenging ourselves to something different. Whether it’s starting the gym, picking up a hobby or changing our mindset. Hobbies are a brilliant way to take a break from the ‘norm’ of life.
We all need to learn to be a little kinder to ourselves. As human beings, we have bad habits of overloading our minds until they can’t take any more. Instead, we need to learn to take a step back and unwind because it’s better for our mental health. So many people at the start of the new year set their goals, and decide what they want to achieve.
Some even set themselves new hobbies to try and master. Hobbies are a fantastic way of allowing your mind a break from your everyday life. They allow you to escape and focus on something fun which isn’t going to cause you a great deal of stress. Far too many of us give up hobbies because we find it hard to fit them into our busy lives.
But, they are extremely important for our mental health, which, ultimately, affects our physical health too. So, ahead of 2024, we’re challenging you to find a new hobby. Then, when the new year comes around, you’ll have your equipment and be prepared, ready to give it a go. You don’t need to go all out and buy the best gear to start with.
Instead, just get the essentials, and you can add to your equipment as you advance through the hobby. We’ve put together some ideas of creative outlets you could emerse yourself with in 2024. You don’t have to try any of these, we just thought we’d give you a few suggestions for anyone struggling to find their thing.
Crocheting
Pick up a crochet hook and some how to guides and get started. Many people start small with crochet pieces and grow over time. Perhaps you could begin with tiny little patches, and eventually turn them into something more. If you get really good, you could start selling your work. People buy anything from blankets, to cuddly toys and clothing that’s been crocheted.
Bullet-journaling
Apparently, scrap-booking is out and bullet-journaling is in. The idea is, you write down your thoughts, feelings, along with documenting time for meditation and errands. Essentially, it’s a bit of a time keeping diary mixed with a feelings diary… two in one. You normally make them look colourful and fun but keep sentences short.
Painting
Anyone can paint. Many think they can’t because they weren’t born with the natural talent. However, painting is an expression. Some famous artists sell their work for millions when all others see is a few lines on a page. Art can be interpreted in so many ways, and that’s the beauty of it. Get some paper, some paint and some brushes and just start experimenting.
Baking
Baking is a creative activity. Many don’t think of cooking when they’re imagining creative hobbies, but it certainly is. You have to be gentle with baking, and practise certainly makes perfect. When it comes to decorating your bakes, this is essentially art because it’s like painting or drawing – you want a steady hand.
Photography
Photography is so good for the mind because you’re again expressing yourself but often, it’s done outdoors. So, you’re surrounded by nature. This is the perfect escape from the mundane. Plus, when you’re photographing, you start to notice the beauty in the simple every day things, so it could be the hobby you need.
These are just five different creative hobbies you could try in the new year. You could give anything a go. It doesn’t have to cost, and you don’t have to pay for lessons unless this is something you know you’re going to love. The best way to learn is by just giving it a go, so whatever creative activity you want to try – do it!
