Hobbies: Are They Worth It?

My friend and I were talking about hobbies the other day and how they've enriched our lives. Sometimes though, we get the feeling that it's not good enough for an activity to be just a hobby. Like if you're not monetizing or furthering your self interests through an activity, then why do it? I know I've been guilty of thinking these things about myself and my kids. But hobbies are beneficial even if you don't become great or famous. Even if you try them and fail.

When I think of the value of hobbies, I often think of my mother. From my earliest memories, she was always sewing, quilting, painting, refinishing furniture, taking guitar and piano lessons, gardening, collecting and making dolls, cross stitching, and more. She didn't do all those things at once, but those are things I can remember her attempting, and often enjoying! Her example taught me that if I was interested in something, I should try it and see what happened.

Blogging is my newest hobby. I enjoy being able to express my thoughts and find out that others identify with them. I like having a digital space that's mine. It's fun to learn how to do something and experiment with it. Of course, I hope that the number of people that read it increases because it's always fun to reach a larger audience. However, it's also very easy for the joy in it to disappear when I start doing things for my blog because I should, rather than for pleasure.

I think it's okay to start and end hobbies. Others may consider it flighty, but I know there are several things I've thrown myself into for a season, but no longer have any interest in doing. Scrapbooking, anyone? So what if I only finished a fraction of the albums I started out to complete? If I enjoyed the creative process for awhile and learned something new, it was worth it. I've given myself permission to move on and make room for other things that look interesting.

I'm going to try and do this more with my children. I'm too practical sometimes, not wanting to pay for lessons they may not stick with or spend time on things they won't do long term. If they really want to try something and I can reasonably make it happen, I should. Sure, they may give it up, but how will they know unless they try it? I want to set the example of not being afraid to develop new skills, just as my mom set for me. I hope my children will always enjoy pursuing their interests whether they excel at them or not.

I'd love to hear about your hobbies. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Are you learning about anything just for fun?