You might ask “Isn’t the idea with retirement that I have lots of time to do the things I enjoy?” “Why do I need hobbies that only take an hour a week?” Well, think two themes – variety and adventurism.
It is great that you can take a hobby that you did before retirement and expand it using some of the free time that retirement hopefully provides. However studies have shown that variety creates the mental stimulation that we all need as we get older.
And we need new adventures with our hobbies. Who knows where a hobby that takes one hour a week can lead. Maybe it will become your biggest hobby because you simply love it. Perhaps it will enable you to connect with new friends. It might even provide a side income someday.
So, let’s start looking at some possibilities to give you some ideas:
Astronomy
Astronomy can be as simple as going out on a clear night, sitting in a comfortable lounge chair and looking up. Then you do some internet research and buy some books to learn about the constellations and movement of the planets. Eventually you pick up some binoculars or even a telescope. Be careful, this hobby can be addicting!
Coin Collecting
You can start this one just by looking at your loose change. Try saving a penny or a nickel for each of the last 25 years. Check out the internet and books and learn about mint marks and the history behind your coins. Surprise yourself when you find all the 100 year old coins you can purchase for very little money. Some coins might even be an investment.
Writing
If you are reading this on a computer chances are you have everything you need to become a writer. Start a blog on a subject you like and write a short post every week. Write a short article on anything and offer it to another blog. Of course you might get the writing bug bad and start that great new novel!
Getting into Nature
This can be as simple as taking a walk in a peaceful place once a week. Are you traveling somewhere? Why not add a nature component with a short hike or wildlife viewing. Do some research on an environmental concern and see how you can help.
Music
Try listening to some unknown performers and find one you like. Find them on YouTube or other online services. If you don’t know where to start talk to a young person. They are probably an expert even if they don’t have your same taste in music!
Crafts
Make something small, clever and easy. We’re not talking an artistic masterpiece here. Anything that is fun!
Collect Something
Stop at one or two yard sales and find something collectable. Or renew an interest you had years ago. I’ve heard Beanie Babies are pretty cheap these days!
Reading
Browse Amazon and add a couple books to your wish list. Figure out where your local library is and pay it a visit. You may be surprised how much they have changed but most still let you borrow books for free. And while you are there drop off a book you have already read as a donation.
Travel
Search the internet and build your own wish list of places to visit. Make a list of all the places you can visit for $1000. Make a list of weekend trips. Or make that travel bucket list and start researching destinations on the list. If you do this a little every week you are sure to turn some of your research into concrete plans.
There are many other hobbies you can begin exploring with very little time. Do some research and use your imagination!
Until next time…
Speak Your Mind