What Is a Hobby?
Hobbies are activities that a person pursues for pleasure outside of regular employment and other daily obligations. They may involve collecting themed items, engaging in creative and artistic pursuits or playing sports. Hobbies are typically pursued regularly and with a dedicated spirit. The word hobby comes from the Middle English term for a small horse or pony, referring to a child’s toy hobbyhorse.
Hobbies typically evolve as a result of new interests and passions, but they can also be nurtured by an existing interest. For example, a hobby might be based on reading about a specific topic that one has an interest in. Depending on the level of dedication and commitment, a hobby can become a vocation or even a profession.
Some hobbies are oriented towards the creation of an end product. Examples include woodworking, photography, movie making, software projects such as Photoshopping or home music and video production, jewelry making, and designing, creating and wearing costumes based on an existing creative property (Cosplay).
A hobby can also be an activity that involves socializing with others. Group hobbies can provide a sense of community and an opportunity for social interaction that might otherwise be difficult or impossible in individualistic societies.
Hobbies are often a great way to relieve stress. They can give people an activity that they feel a passion for, and they can be a fun, creative way to spend time. Having a hobby can help people develop a sense of self-worth, and it can also improve their overall health and well being.