It’s that time of year when the whole world is making New Year’s resolutions. Topping the list is the typical weight loss goals, exercise, eat right and get healthy. But I think now is the time to look around and make hobby goals to help you become the well-rounded person you want to be.
You don’t have to spend a lot of money or time to develop a new hobby. Just make a few tweaks and try something new in 2013.
Break out of a reading rut: If you already love to read but find yourself in a reading rut, why not try a new genre of books? I regularly review books I have read and post them on Hobbies on a Budget. Or talk to the librarians or friends to get a suggestion for something new.
Take a road trip: Whether you have the time or money to take a huge vacation or just a local road trip, get out and go. There are amazing vacation destinations within an hour’s drive no matter where you live. You can check out the growing list of vacation ideas for the entire 50 United States. This link has parks, museums, random tourist attractions and more. http://hobbiesonabudget.com/vacationideas/
Start a new collection when you travel: If a road trip is in your 2013 plans, then start a new collection of road sign pictures. Many people are keeping a record of all the states they visit by snapping a picture of the welcome sign when they cross the state line. There are many variations on these state sign picture collections. Some people just snap a picture as they cross the state border, others stop and get their picture taken with the sign. Some even take a garden gnome or stuffed animal they hold in each picture. Just remember to think about safety any time you are stopping on a highway. Sometimes the signs are not in a location that allows you to stop and get a picture.
Snap some pictures: Most people have access to a camera, whether it’s on a phone or it’s a digital point-and-shoot. Make 2013 the year to record memories. By taking pictures, you will solidify the good times in your life and preserve them for the future. Our memories don’t always do an event justice. By snapping pictures, you will be able to relive the fun you had and possibly prod yourself to do something just for fun again.
Take small steps: If getting in shape is on your resolution list, don’t get overwhelmed by trying too much too soon. Just start by walking or adding water to your daily routine. I try to keep fresh lemons in the refrigerator so I can drink water with lemon throughout the day. Many people have fitness resolutions that fail because they tried to do too much at the start. They start out with huge diet restrictions and quickly realize they can’t keep up with the requirements. Start small and make lifestyle changes.
Don’t invest big money: If you are interested in a new hobby, start small. Don’t go out and buy all the top-of-the-line equipment. Borrow the supplies, start looking at yard sales or thrift stores, or just buy one piece of equipment at a time. You don’t want to try a new hobby and invest lots of money only to discover that you absolutely hate the hobby. You can always upgrade later after you have decided to stick with the new hobby.
Do you have New Year’s resolutions? Do you have plans to start something new? I’d love to hear your hobby goals for 2013!
Sharon Williams blogs about hobbies, saving money and life at Hobbies on a Budget. (www.hobbiesonabudget.com)
