Between work, side hustles, family, friends, and significant others, keeping up with hobbies can be very difficult, and even feel impossible at times. Making time to work on hobbies, can be worth it because they add so much richness to our lives, and remind us that our self worth isn’t tied our job(s), and other outside influences. Making time to work on your hobbies and interests can be a great way to unwind after work, and give you something to looking forward to throughout the week.

How to make more time for your hobbies and interests

Make a list of activities you enjoy

I have a number of hobbies and interests I enjoy, such as, baking, painting, video games, reading, going to the movies, and crocheting.

Somedays I like to combine multiple hobbies into one activity. Most recently I watched The Intern with Anne Hathaway and Robert DeNiro while working on a granny square crochet blanket. Other days I’ll listen to an audio book while working on gouache paintings or sketching ideas for a new project.

Set realistic goals and plan ahead

We all have a lot going on, and one thing I constantly have to remind myself, is that I don’t have to do everything every day or all a the same time. At this point in my life I'm not able to break out my gouache tubes and paint everyday, but I’m able to paint a few times a week, and that’s enough to make me happy. It’s ok to designate certain activities to certain days, or keep them on the back burner to revisit a few weeks or months from now. Planning ahead keeps things in perspective, and gives me a more realistic overview of what’s achievable during the weeks and months ahead.

Some of my hobbies and interests are seasonal. For example I prefer to crochet during the fall and winter months, and usually drop the hobby when spring comes around. During the rest of the year, I like to save inspiration for future projects in my phone. After a long break I’m refreshed and excited to start a new crochet projects when fall arrives.

Make use of slow periods

On monthly solo-dates I like to read a book on my Kindle while waiting for my food to arrive at a restaurant. Another way to make more time for your hobbies, is to make use of slow periods. Keep a book in your purse to read while getting the oil changed in your car. Carry a canvas bag that holds a small knit project to work as you wait at the dentists office. These small moments of slower periods can be great ways to interact with your hobbies.

Set aside time each week

In addition to planning ahead, set aside time each week to make time to work on hobbies. After looking over your entire week, look for pockets of time that you can use to engage with your hobbies and interests.

For example I’m not always able to complete an illustration project in one session. Instead of rushing, I chose to break up the projects over a few days or weeks. One day I’ll brain storm an idea. Another day I’ll seek out inspiration, sketch out ideas, and choose a color palette. Maybe a couple days or a week later I’ll paint thumbnails, and eventually paint the final art piece. Setting aside time each week keeps the project manageable and enjoyable.

Put your phone away

Put your phone or airplane mode, in a drawer, or put it in another room. Putting your phone down, gives you the space to focus on working on your hobbies.

Join a club or sign up for a class

When making time for your hobbies, joining a club or signing up for a class can be a great idea. Depending on the club or class you may not even have to leave the house! Use Meetup or look up local events and classes happening in your city. You can join a class on Skillshare, Domestika, or YouTube. It’s a great way to work on your hobbies, be around likeminded people, and potentially make new friends.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, nurturing our hobbies and interests is essential for maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life. By making a list of activities we enjoy, setting realistic goals, and planning ahead, we can ensure that our passions remain important parts of our routines. Embracing the ebb and flow of seasonal interests, making use of slow periods, and setting aside dedicated time each week are practical strategies for fostering creativity and enjoyment. Ultimately, prioritizing our hobbies not only brings us joy and fulfillment but also contributes to our overall well-being. So, let's carve out time in our busy schedules to make time for hobbies and interests that bring us the most joy and satisfaction.