What Is a Hobby?

A hobby is an activity outside a person’s primary job that is undertaken for enjoyment rather than financial gain. It is usually done in one’s spare time and often on a regular basis. People may have multiple hobbies and may switch between them. The term hobby may also refer to an obsession with a particular activity, especially in the form of collecting, or to a particular pursuit or skill, such as playing an instrument, cooking, painting, writing, or dancing. It may also be a form of entertainment, such as playing video games or watching movies.

Hobbies are a way to relax and take your mind off of work and daily life and can be enjoyable for everyone, regardless of age or background. They can help improve mental health and self-esteem by providing a sense of accomplishment. They can also be an opportunity to develop new skills and make new friends. In addition, hobbies can be a social activity, or can be a way to bond with family members.

Trying to find hobbies that are fun and fulfilling can be challenging for some people. Those who aren’t sure where to start may want to consider a few personality assessments, such as the Strong Interest Inventory or the Myers Briggs Type Indicator. Another option is to look at the ways they already spend their free time and try to identify what activities could become their next hobby. If they love watching TV, for instance, maybe they could start going to a weekly movie night with friends or learning more about the history of their favorite shows through online resources.