My new year’s resolutions have never been all that honorable. One year I resolved to drink more vodka (instead of wine, someone told me it was healthier – haha) and smoke more pot (don’t worry mom, I’m no good at either).
When I turned 30 and realized that my one and only “hobby” was drinking with friends, I made the best resolution of all time – to reclaim my hobbies and maybe even find some new ones! As I sit here and reflect, I realized that I’ve actually done a kick ass job with this! Mostly due to moving to California where hobbies seem more realistic and frankly, not frowned upon (thanks for nothing NYC) but I’ve also made a conscious effort to start doing things that make me feel happy.
I’ve spoken with a few friends on this subject and everyone has something getting in the way of making time for themselves and doing what they love (kids, work, family, etc). All legitimate excuses! But I can honestly say that those who have focused on reincorporating at least one hobby in their day-to-day life seem happier.
For me, I joined a tennis team. I played tennis in high school and my first 2 years of college and then put down my racket for 10+ years. For many reasons, it’s intimidating to get back into something that used to be such a huge part of your life. I was scared that I’d stink or that I wouldn’t be able to find enough time to practice. It took a lot of encouragement from my sister and friends but one night (possibly after a heavy pour of wine), I pulled the trigger, booked some private lessons and joined a neighborhood team. Best decision I’ve made in a while and I have Estancia Pinot Grigio to thank for it!
The fact is, like so many, I had spent my 20’s living to work rather than working to live. And I had lost a piece of myself during those years. For me, doing something as simple as picking back up a tennis racquet was so much more than playing a sport. It was letting go and taking back a little piece of myself by choosing to make time for something I enjoyed.
Although tennis has been the most impactful of my new hobbies, I’ve also picked up a few other gems over the last few years:
Riding a Bike
My new town in California has a cruiser club every Tuesday night in the summer. We all get together and ride our bikes around town and then to a park to have a beer. It’s one of my favorite Cali activities!
Baking
Yes, I made 1 million cookie dough balls for my niece’s 8th birthday party ice cream sundae bar. Let’s just say, there is a reason people buy these things!!!!
Crafting
I’ve been repainting this small 2 shelf bookcase for 2 months now but it still counts!
Paint: Annie Sloan, Pure White (best paint ever – no sanding required!)
Ok, I’m starting to sound like an old lady but you get the point. These things don’t take a ton of time and they all make me feel satisfied in a way I haven’t felt in a while. Is it possible I’m getting back to the point of being described as “well rounded”? I wouldn’t go that far but I do have things to talk about at a cocktail party and that says a lot.
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