|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Do you feel like your schedule is packed to the brim? Between work, family, and everything in between, it can seem impossible to carve out a few minutes for yourself. But guess what? You can find time for hobbies, and this article will show you how
Let’s face it—being an African in the Diaspora often means you’re balancing a thousand different responsibilities at once. Whether you’re working multiple jobs, taking care of your family, or adjusting to a new environment, life can get overwhelming.
And while we often push hobbies aside in favor of “more important” tasks, having a hobby is crucial for your mental health and overall happiness.
Maybe you’ve always wanted to explore photography or reconnect with traditional crafts from back home, but time always slips away. I’m here to tell you it’s possible to fit these hobbies into your day, even when it feels like you’re running on fumes. Here’s how.
Why You Need a Hobby (Even if You Think You Don’t)
Hobbies aren’t just something to pass the time—they help reduce stress and give you a sense of purpose outside of your regular duties. 
Whether it’s knitting, gardening, or learning a new language, engaging in hobbies can make you feel more connected to yourself and your culture. Think of it as therapy, but way more fun and affordable.
Step 1: Schedule It Like You Would a Meeting
Let’s get real: if you wait for free time to magically appear, it never will. The key to finding time for hobbies is scheduling it like you would a doctor’s appointment or a Zoom call.
If you block out even 15 minutes in your calendar for your hobby, it becomes part of your routine. Use reminders on your phone or even post-its around the house—whatever it takes to make it happen.
Step 2: Start with 10-Minute Blocks
Think you need hours to enjoy a hobby? Think again. You can do plenty in 10-15 minutes. If you’re into reading, sneak in a chapter during your morning coffee.
If cooking is your thing, use the time while your rice simmers to experiment with a new recipe. The goal isn’t marathon sessions; it’s consistency. Small steps add up over time.
Step 3: Pair Your Hobbies with Daily Tasks
Busy schedules don’t leave much wiggle room, so why not combine hobbies with things you already do? Love music? Listen to your favorite songs or a podcast about a new hobby while you do laundry or cook dinner.
If you’re into fitness, squeeze in a short workout while you wait for your food to bake. You’ll feel productive and get closer to mastering your hobby.
Step 4: Cut Back on Time Wasters (Social Media, I’m Looking at You)
We all have guilty pleasures—whether it’s scrolling through Instagram for hours or binge-watching series on Netflix. Finding time for hobbies means cutting back on those time-wasters.
You don’t need to stop entirely, but be mindful of how much time these activities are taking from your day. Maybe instead of watching three episodes, you watch one and spend 30 minutes on your hobby.
Step 5: Use Weekends Wisely
During the workweek, your schedule might be tight, but weekends can be a game-changer. Dedicate some weekend time specifically to your hobbies.
You can use that extra time to take a photography walk, attend a dance class, or start painting that piece you’ve been putting off. The weekend gives you breathing room to dive deeper into your passion projects without feeling rushed.
Step 6: Get Family or Friends Involved
Sometimes hobbies can feel like solitary activities, but they don’t have to be. If you’re struggling to find time, why not make it a social activity?
If you enjoy playing soccer or cooking, invite your family or friends to join. This way, you’re spending quality time with loved ones and keeping up with your hobbies at the same time.
Step 7: Be Flexible with Yourself
Life is unpredictable, and there will be times when your hobby plans get derailed. That’s fine. If one week is particularly hectic and you can’t find time for hobbies, don’t stress about it.
The key is to be flexible and return to it when you can. Hobbies should be something you look forward to, not something that adds more pressure to your life.
Conclusion: Yes, You Can Make Time for Hobbies
Even with a packed schedule, finding time for hobbies is entirely doable. It takes a little planning, creativity, and commitment, but the benefits are well worth it. Hobbies help you de-stress, stay connected to your roots, and keep you mentally sharp.
So whether it’s knitting, cooking, or learning something new, start small and stay consistent. Before you know it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without your hobby.
READ: Stay Sharp: 6 Proven Ways to Keep Your Brain Young
This article will explore six proven ways to boost brain health and prevent cognitive decline.
