5 Ways To Make Sure That New Years’ Hobby Sticks

The new year is fast approaching which means many will go through that same old process; “This year I’m going to start running!”.

Then they run for about 3 weeks, with a slight renaissance in march which ultimately results in them calling it a day once again.

So, how do you pick up a new hobby, one that will stick? Well, a lot of that is up to you and your motivation.

Here’s the thing, though. Many believe that motivation is stagnant, you’re either motivated or you’re not. That’s just not the case.

There are a good number of ways to make sure you are always keen to get stuck into a session. Make that new hobby stick.

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Time Management

This is where everyone seems to fall short, and it’s no wonder – it’s not easy to manage your time through work, studies, social life, pets, kids; the list just doesn’t end.

Just because it’s difficult (and it is!) doesn’t make it impossible, a lot of hobbies fall to the wayside due to poor time management.

How do you tackle that? Well, you want to make sure that you are picking a hobby that is compatible with your lifestyle.

It’s not easy to be a passionate cyclist when you work a 9-5 and it’s dark when you leave for work and dark when you come home.

In the same sense, a hobby like martial arts, which has set class times wouldn’t suit if you work sporadic hours.

Find something that’s right for you timewise and go from there.

The Right Gear

You don’t have to get all the best kit, in fact there’s a term for that; ATGNI (All the Gear, No Idea), don’t be that guy.

But don’t be that person rocking up to a climbing academy in tight jeans and docs, because you aren’t going to have a good time.

You should look into the bare essentials for your chosen hobby, that’ll give you a great starting point as you won’t be hindered by crappy kit.

Just pop into a sports store and seek out a beginners kit for your sport, then fill the rest of your basket with more general essentials, like hand towels, gym bags, and underwear that don’t give you a wedgie every three steps.

Good People

Good people are really important if you want to stick to something. Without a community, it’s just another lonely hour.

Startup with someone that you know and engage with the community, there’s a niche for everything online so get involved. You will enjoy your new hobby much more and you’ll also have the chance to meet new people

If your friend doesn’t stick, that’s okay; getting started is the hard part, and once you’ve been at it for a while you’ll meet more and more like-minded people who’ll make your hew hobby that much more enjoyable.

Days Off

You need days off, whether it’s running, painting, or coding, doing something every single day will make it feel like an obligation.

When you’re not feeling it and have been at it for a few days at a time, take a day or two off, you’ll feel motivated and invigorated when you return after a rest day!

Genuine Passion

Lastly, don’t pick up something because it’s popular right now, or because it’s ‘good for you.

Pick up a hobby that makes you happy. That way, you’ll actually want to participate, which will lead to consistency, which will become routine, and then boom; you’ve done it – it’s a part of your life now!

Read more: 8 Relaxing Hobbies For Successful Business People