Want to reinvent yourself this year but don’t know where to start? Finding hobbies can be difficult for a number of reasons. Not only do you want to enjoy the hobbies you have, but you also want to do well with those hobbies. Moreover, hobbies should benefit you in some way. So, here are 5 hobbies that are productive, useful, and able to help you be your best self.
#1 Develop a skincare routine
Initially, it’s recommended that you do a little bit of research when choosing a skincare routine. There might be some skin products that may work better for skin conditions like eczema or acne. There are a plethora of articles, youtube videos, or even friends that would be more than happy to recommend different skincare routines to those who are looking.
Once you know your routine, make sure you have the right equipment. Whether it be a Gua Sha, a Jade Roller, or another skincare tool, it’s important to remember that you don’t necessarily need to get what works best for others. Keep in mind that this is YOUR routine that should prioritize YOUR preferences! Don’t be afraid to look up tutorials either. The goal of a skincare routine is to make your skin look more fresh. The best results come when the products are used correctly.
By creating a skincare routine (and sticking with it), you can help yourself mentally and physically. Developing a skincare routine is incredibly important for hygiene and helps install discipline. For many (both male and female), skin care routines have also become therapeutic, usually serving as a way people can start their day off with a sense of calm and/or help them wind down after a long and stressful day.
#2 Create a workout routine
We’ve all heard the big speech about how exercise is good for your body and keeps you healthy. But what sometimes goes unsaid is that exercise can help you better your mental state as well. Working out has been proven to help with mood swings, depression, anxiety, and mental stress. Exercising has also been known to improve people’s sense of time management and overall discipline.
Similar to a skincare routine, a workout routine should also be something you research depending on what you wish to get out of it. Whether you want to lose weight, build muscle, or just stay active, there are many different activities to take part in to ensure your enjoyment and success. When it comes to working out, the hardest part is starting. Some work out with their friends to make the experience more enjoyable, while others listen to music. Visuals, like checking off each day you work out, can also help you feel a sense of accomplishment and inspire more motivation.
#3 Journaling
The best part of journaling is that all you really need is a pen and paper! There are, of course, aesthetic journals and lavish pens you can buy at places like Barnes and Noble or Michael’s. There are also apps that let you vent your feelings and talk about your day. Apps like Vent, Daylio, and Five Minute Journal are all options for those who find it more convenient to type out their feelings instead.
Journaling can be comforting but it can also be incredibly frustrating. When people first start to journal, they tend to think about how much they should write, how frequently they should write, and what they should write about. Moreover, some people feel inclined to write a certain way as if a third party would be reading it. While it’s understandable why someone might worry about these details, these worries are often the reason why journaling quickly becomes unattractive to the average person. The purpose of journaling isn’t to write well or regularly. It’s to healthily express your feelings in a safe environment. Free yourself of any judgment you might have towards your writing and don’t beat yourself up if you miss a day or two.
#4 Take dance classes
While it might seem a bit specific, dance classes are a great way to get in touch with yourself. Dancing is often characterized as a traditionally feminine activity. While this may not always be the case, don’t be afraid to take advantage of the opportunity to get in touch with your vulnerable side. It doesn’t matter how good or bad of a dancer you think you might be. Dancing can serve as a wonderful expression of emotion no matter the style, technique, or skill level.
While it is recommended that you take a dance class, it’s ok if it isn’t something you can afford or fit into your schedule. YouTube has many types of online dance classes that can also provide a community of dancers that can help and encourage you as well. Whether it be online or in person, dancing can bring many people together and open you up to new possibilities.
#5 Learn how to cook/bake
When people used to think of women cooking, it was often pictured that she would selflessly slave away to make sure everything is just right so she could serve her husband after a long day at work. Now when someone thinks of a woman making a meal, they think of “girl dinner” and their fun, easy (and sometimes concerning) indulgences. However, I believe that cooking/baking is a hobby that’s meant to have a balance of both lifestyles.
Cooking or baking can help you get to know yourself in a fun and involved fashion. Experimenting with old recipes and trying new ones offer a chance for you to learn more about your likes and dislikes. Your favorite recipes can also be shared with your loved ones and can even be something you bring to parties and get togethers. Not only does it give your friends and family something new to try, but can also give them insight into what you like as well.
While the hobbies mentioned above are highly recommended, these are only five possibilities! Don’t worry if you don’t find some of these enjoyable or if you end up finding a hobby that isn’t on the list. The most important thing to remember when finding new hobbies is that you should enjoy them.
