How to have a true hobby, not a side hustle

Earning a part-time income may overlap with our interests, but it’s important to develop hobbies with no financial motives attached. The pleasure of engaging in a hobby should be enough without the added stress of deadlines, demands, and accommodation.

A hobby disconnected from your career will likely still improve your work life. Leisure time not only helps refuel us for a busy work life but engaging in deep focus helps us to become better at focusing.

Creating a website or learning to code may seem like an attractive choice for a hobby, but if you find yourself losing hours to your devices, pick an activity that's not screen-based.

Screen time has been linked to depression and anxiety. Phones interfere with our ability to focus. Engaging in active or outdoor hobbies like bird watching, ballroom dancing, or hiking can improve engagement in a hobby.

Whether you’re moving to a new city, moving into a new apartment, or meeting new coworkers, the change can be a good time to spark a change in your routine.

Ask yourself if you should work at the cafe down the street or in your apartment? When do you exercise, and where? How often do you go out with friends?