During the winter of 2024, Rachel Martin took a hard look at her life and realized she was glued to her screens for way too long. “I couldn’t think of any hobbies that didn’t involve technology,” she admitted. With activities like binge-watching shows and gaming taking over, some days she spent over 12 hours behind a screen. Rachel was ready for a change.
After some trial and error, she discovered journaling. Using fountain pens and special inks, she found a tactile experience that surprised her. “I didn’t expect to love it this much,” she said, noting how it helped her cut down on screen time. Plus, she started attending local meetups for fountain pen lovers in Sydney, making it a social affair as well.
For Rachel, screen time was especially problematic because she suffers from chronic migraines that screens can trigger. Yet she isn’t alone in wanting a break from devices. Many people are looking for ways to engage in hobbies that don’t involve screens. Research backs this up, showing that enjoyable pastimes can reduce stress and boost mental and physical health.
But how do you find a hobby that sticks? Here are some tips to consider:
Don’t Stress About Perfection
Sarah Pressman, a psychology professor at the University of California, Irvine, encourages people to avoid the pressure of finding the “perfect” pastime. “Mix up small enjoyable activities,” she said. Cooking, chatting with a friend, or spending time in your garden can positively impact your mood. It’s not about dedicating hours; even short, fulfilling engagements can make a difference.
Explore Widely
Try out various activities. Spend 30 minutes on things that catch your interest and notice how they feel. Think of it like dating—you might go on several “first dates” before finding your ideal match. Reflect on activities you enjoyed as a child or those you naturally lose track of time doing. It could also help to consider what you’re lacking in your current routine. If you need more physical activity, consider a new fitness class. Feeling sluggish mentally? Pick up a gripping book.
Ask for Suggestions
Sometimes it’s hard to see beyond what you already do. Don’t hesitate to ask friends or family for hobby recommendations. Share any budget or time constraints you have to get ideas that work for you.
Make Hobbies Accessible
If you’re used to spending evenings in front of the TV, transitioning to a new hobby can be tricky. Keep your hobby supplies visible and easily reachable. Transition from one activity to another without getting sucked back into screens. Setting specific goals, like “I will read one chapter before bed” or carving out dedicated time for your hobby, can help.
Balance Screen Time
Not all screen time is bad. Matthew Zawadzki, an associate professor of psychological sciences at UC Merced, points out that some screen activities, like watching a movie with family, can foster bonding. It’s important to find a balance. Too much screen time can detract from your goals, but occasional use can be perfectly fine. Plus, recognizing the positives of your screen activities can help improve your overall mindset.
As you explore new hobbies, remember: it’s about finding joy and minimizing stress, not adding more pressure to your life. Take it one small step at a time!
For more insights on balancing technology and leisure, you can check this research article for more in-depth findings.
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General news, Be Well, JWD-evergreen, Lifestyle, Sarah Pressman, Health, U.S. news, Sydney, Matthew Zawadzki, Rachel Martin, U.S. News
