Five Tips For Starting A New Hobby

There’s something about starting a new hobby that’s so exciting. I’m not sure if it’s the new supplies, the Pinterest board full of inspiration, or the thought of becoming really good at something new, but regardless of what it is, I am always looking for a new hobby to try.

As a self-proclaimed “serial hobbyist,” I have jumped from reading, to beading, to running, to quilting, and now, cross stitching and more. Along the way, I’ve learned some important tips about hobbies that I recommend to help you get the most enjoyment out of your new hobby!

Tip #1 – Don't go for the nicest supplies right away

Whether you are interested in starting a craft project, learning how to cook a new dish, or teaching yourself an instrument, it’s best not to go for the nicest, usually most expensive, supplies right away. Often, when I am trying to teach myself a new skill, I will look up tutorials for beginners. Many of the people who make these tutorials are experts in their craft and usually have professional grade equipment and supplies. I’ve gotten trapped in the mindset that I also need the nicest and most professional supplies and will spend too much money on supplies that I will hardly use or will be too advanced for my beginner skills.

Invest in simple solutions, or better yet, try using the supplies you already have at home! After practicing for a while, if it is something you see yourself continuing to work on, consider upgrading your equipment and supplies. Until then, the beginner grade quality supplies will work just fine.

Tip #2 – Remember, you won’t be perfect right away

As much as I try to fight it, I am a perfectionist and will give myself a hard time if I am not an expert at a new hobby or skill right away. Trusting the learning process and giving yourself grace will help set you up for future success and prevent you from quitting right away. Also, if you make something and it doesn’t turn out “perfect”, it can be a great piece to compare your progress to as you continue learning! I personally love pieces that don’t quite turn out perfect and have one or two (or many) mistakes, I think they tend to have more character and tell more of a story then the pieces that turn out perfect.

Tip #3 – Not everything needs to make you money

If you are like me and always trying to find ways to be entrepreneurial, hobbies can feel like a job rather than a source of fun and relaxation. As I mentioned before, I have recently gotten into cross stitching. I have had to constantly remind myself that I don’t need to sell my work or patterns to make cross stitching “worth it.” I can just work on it because I think it is fun. There doesn’t always need to be a deeper purpose behind a hobby besides it is something enjoyable to do.

Tip #4 – Share your progress with friends

Hobbies are the most fun when you do them with others. Sharing progress can be a good way to connect with others who are also trying to start a new hobby. If you are trying to read as a hobby, share your favorite books with others or create a joint TBR list. If you are learning to cook, have people over to try a new recipe you want to make. If you want to start running, invite people to go on runs with you. Whatever the hobby is, there is a way to share it with your friends, ultimately creating a community of like-minded people.

Tip #5 – If it’s not fun anymore, take a break!

The best part about hobbies is that if it is no longer fun, you are allowed to take a break! Hobbies are meant to help you relax and enjoy your free time. If it is starting to feel like a chore, you can take a break! There have been several times where I feel super excited about starting a new hobby but after a little bit of time, it feels mundane and no longer excites me. I’ll set it aside for a little while, and usually after a few months, the excitement returns, and I feel ready to pick up where I left off. If you never feel excited to return to a hobby, that’s ok too! There’s no pressure to ever return if it no longer brings you joy.

Whatever your next hobby is, I hope these tips help you get started! Have fun!