Even though our schedules are getting tighter and our days are seemingly getting shorter and shorter, there is one activity that I strongly suggest you add to your list this year: A new hobby.

Having and regularly engaging in a hobby offers you a wide range of benefits that are worth considering. In our ever-busy lives, there is already too much to deal with. However, sparing time to find and try out a new hobby can help to lower your stress levels and it offers you an excellent opportunity to express yourself. You probably have a number of things that you’ve always wanted to try out, let this be the year that you do so.

Below, we have provided 7 compelling reasons why you should take up a new hobby. And if you’re interested in sailing as a hobby, you can check out Wickenroy Pavitt.

Lowers stress

The last thing you need in your busy and stressful life is to add another ‘task’ to your list. However, fitting a hobby into your schedule has an opposite and positive effect. Since hobbies are generally fun activities that you enjoy doing, they are always a great way to release stress. They help to keep your mind off the stresses of work and daily life.

Promotes happiness

Doing something that you actually love and enjoy and aren’t obligated to do usually offers a great sense of joy and happiness. It can also help boost your morale and energy levels.

Gives you a social outlet

Various hobbies give you the opportunity to meet new people and expand your network of friends. For example, depending on your hobby, you can join a book club, music/choir club, or hiking group and meet new people who share similar interests as you. You get to create new friendships and connections that you would have otherwise not been able to.

Exposes you to new challenges

Trying out something new such as a hobby allows you to challenge and stimulate yourself. It lets you break away from your regular boring routine and expose your mind to a set of fresh issues. However, unlike other challenges you face at work and in daily life, these are less stressful, more pleasant, and more importantly, optional.

Helps to boost your confidence

Being good at something can be highly rewarding and fulfilling. While you might be good at your job, there is something special about being naturally good at something outside your professional qualifications. Trying out a new hobby can help you to discover talents that you never knew you had. This can go a long way in boosting your self-esteem and confidence, which can improve other areas of your life.

Promotes physical health

Hobbies not only stimulate your mind, but they are also beneficial to your physical health. Participating in activities that you love and enjoy has been found to help lower blood pressure, cortisol levels, and body mass index. Engaging in hobbies has also been associated with higher levels of positive psychosocial states and reduced risk of depression.

Prevents burnout

Working for long periods of time reduces your focus and brain effectiveness leading to burnout. Taking some time out and engaging in a fun activity that you enjoy allows your brain to take a break and refocus. It allows you to come back to work with a fresh mind.

Perhaps you already have an idea in mind. If not, try to think about something that you’ve always wanted to do and take steps to start doing so.