By Nikita Wolff
So you’ve spent the last 2 years spending an average of 5 hours a day in front of the TV or endlessly scrolling TikTok… Maybe you’ve reached the point where you’re ready to step outside of your comfort zone and explore new hobbies.
Here are some lower-cost hobbies that might pique your interest:
DIY repairs on your clothes, home, furniture, etc.
Pro tip: don’t bite off more than you can chew (not speaking from personal experience or anything…). But learning new skills is fun & rewarding.
Learn the ukulele
Not only are they one of the more affordable instruments, but they’re also quite easy to learn and fun to play & sing along with.
Gardening
Start small. Learn from a friend. Or maybe participate in a garden co-op near you.
Camping
If your vacation budget is slim, non-existent, or if you just love the great outdoors, camping can be a great way to unplug and recharge.
Knitting
This should be a helpful resource for learning how to start your knitting journey.
Learning how to cook
You don’t have to be a master chef to start trying new recipes. BudgetBytes has some great cost-friendly recipes on their website.
Join a sports team
A lot of cities have adult co-ed leagues that are not highly competitive and are meant to be for fun.
Volunteering
This could be anything from Big Brother Big Sisters, to volunteering at a local animal shelter, to feeding the homeless. You get to decide which causes are most near and dear to your heart.
Yoga
This can be in-person or online. I’ve really enjoyed using Yoga with Adriene’s videos to wind down in the evening (plus she’s got a cute furry yoga buddy).
Writing
Poetry, creative writing, personal writing in your diary… any of it counts.
Dance badly
Or dance well, if that’s your thing. You can find local dance classes or online videos if you aren’t ready to be seen by other humans yet.
Reading
You certainly don’t have to buy your books new. Check out your local second-hand book stores or the library to reduce the cost.
Learn a new language
Duolingo offers 38 languages currently
ASL Pinnacle offers affordable & intimate sign language classes.
Exercise
Whether it’s walking, running, weight-lifting, cycling, or something else: all of these get your endorphins going and are proven to be good for your physical and mental health.
Train your pet
You can find videos online, or you can sign up somewhere local with a professional trainer who will hold you accountable.
Geocaching
This will not only help you explore places you probably haven’t been, but you get to participate in a treasure hunt while you’re at it! Why not??
Don’t let your fear of not being “good” at something prevent you from trying and enjoying new hobbies. We hope these ideas get you thinking about what you’d like to try next.
