Get a hobby: Tips 3-5
3. To enhance self-esteem
Many hobbies allow you the opportunity to gain new skills, giving you a sense of accomplishment and confidence that makes you feel better about yourself.
Hobbies that involve physical activity such as hiking, gardening and mountain biking strengthen your body and coordination. And getting in better shape can also make you feel good. Creative hobbies like pottery, quilting and writing poetry fuel your imagination and rid you of that "something is missing" feeling - and that makes you feel great.
4. To feel happier
When you self-nurture, you honor your true self. Taking up a hobby is a form of self-care because it's time dedicated specifically for you to do something you love and brings you joy. In doing so, you become healthier, happier and more balanced. These are the best gifts you can give yourself, your family and your community. When you commit to a hobby, you experience a pleasant aftershock - there is more of you to share with others.
5. To get connected
Many hobbies allow us to interact with others for purposes that go beyond self-gratification. If you feel isolated, taking up a hobby is a great way to meet and communicate with new people. Others who share your hobby of choice can often provide you with a great opportunity to build friendships. Sports clubs, dance lessons and knitting circles are wonderful ways to acquire or enhance skills and meet like-minded people. If you crave the chance to make a larger contribution to your community, join a local fundraising group or habitat restoration society and that could become your ideal hobby.
The next time you wonder whether taking up a hobby is a good use of your time, think about all the benefits that come from branching out, exploring something new and nurturing yourself. Give yourself permission to pursue an interest or an activity that is just for you and see what happens when you dedicate some time to your personal growth.
Lisa Martin, professional certified coach, is the author of Briefcase Moms: 10 Proven Practices to Balance Working Mothers' Lives. A working mother with 20 years of corporate and entrepreneurial experience, she is the founder and president of Briefcase MomsTM, an international coaching and personal development company with a mission to "make it easier for working mothers to live balanced and successful lives." She helps professional, executive and entrepreneurial women pursue their dreams without stress and guilt. Visit her website at: www.briefcasemoms.com.
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