Let's have an honest conversation about hobbies, because, to be frank, they used to be a sore spot for me. It may sound peculiar, but whenever someone casually mentioned hobbies, I couldn't help but feel like the odd one out, and my mind would start spiraling with overthinking.
Strangely enough, this envy would sometimes creep in. I would find myself wondering how wonderful it must be to have time for something you genuinely enjoy amidst all the responsibilities and demands of life.
So, when asked about my hobbies, I would stumble and mention makeup. It was the only thing I could think of that was purely for myself. Taking my time in the morning, watching makeup tutorials on YouTube while getting ready, felt like my hobby.
But those uncomfortable feelings and conversations actually sparked something profound within me. They made me realize that I didn't truly know who I was beyond my daily routine. And so, my journey of self-discovery began.
Recently, during a deep conversation with my closest friends, the topic of hobbies came up, and what started as a casual discussion quickly transformed into a passionate exploration. Surprisingly, I discovered that they too were unsure of what they enjoyed anymore. Finding time for self-care felt like an uphill battle, let alone exploring the fun parts of ourselves that we hadn't tapped into since our teenage years.
Coincidentally, I recently listened to an interview with America Ferrera after the release of the Barbie movie. She raised some thought-provoking points about how boys and girls are raised differently when it comes to holding onto childhood joys. Ferrera pointed out a societal double standard, where girls are encouraged to move away from toys and video games, while boys are allowed to continue enjoying them.
In her words, "Growing up is about leaving behind childish things – particularly for women. Men get to have their man caves and play their video games forever. For women, it’s like, ‘Put your toys away, do the chores, grow up.'"
This struck a chord with me. Why should we abandon our hobbies and passions just because society dictates it?
Hobbies are not only important but also nourishing for our souls. They recharge our batteries and bring us a sense of fulfillment and joy. Without them, it's hard to truly feel alive.
But here's the good news – there is a remedy for the hobby blues! It starts with carving out time for yourself, going on solo dates, and exploring what genuinely brings you joy. It's about trying new things and cultivating a habit of dedicating time to something new, whether it's once a week or once a month – whatever works for you.
In my ongoing journey of self-discovery, I have discovered that travel holds a special place in my heart. However, I am eager to explore even more activities that bring me joy. I am planning to take part in virtual classes and workshops through Airbnb Experiences, focusing on cooking, photography, writing, spirituality, and much more.
I hope this post has sparked curiosity within you to explore your own passions and hobbies. Take the time to discover what truly brings you joy and fulfillment. Remember, hobbies are not selfish; they are vital for nurturing your soul and embracing a life filled with purpose and happiness.
So, go ahead and embark on your own journey of self-discovery. Explore the activities that ignite your passion and make you feel alive. Embrace the joys that come from indulging in hobbies that speak to your authentic self. May you find fulfillment and joy in every step of your path.
Until next time,
Michelle