So I came to the realization that I have too many hobbies. Some of you may know, some of you don’t: anime (ugh), manga, movies, TV shows (double ugh), YouTube (help), drawing, reading (triple uuugh), and video games (the dominant one right now).
I’m amazed how I can even maintain some of these activities. I do revel in some more than others, unfortunately, but all of them are a part of my life. And I feel there are people out there with too much to do when they finally get some free time.
So, I have a few tips below if you feel overwhelmed with your hobbies, or need some management.
Maybe drop one or a couple
This may be the hardest thing to do if there is too much. If you can’t find the time to do a certain hobby, then either drop it for a while until it becomes feasible again. I remember I stopped reading books and manga for a good year or so, because I became so engrossed in YouTube and its accessibility. I didn’t have to worry about carrying an extra pound or two in my backpack on my way home for school (even though reading is arguably better, haha).
But if your hobbies are intrinsic to you as they are to me, don’t fret! Because you can also…
Do some time management
If you read my other lifestyle articles, I’m like a broken record by this point. However, I can’t stress enough the importance of time management. I know, it sucks that we have to do it with even our down time, but when you have a lot of hobbies, you might have to.
If you have free time, maybe watch Netflix for an episode or two, or a movie. The next day, watch another episode, and then catch a new episode of another show on TV. The next day, maybe step away from electronics and go out with friends, do some coloring, or play a recreational sport game.
Also, take advantage of those small windows of time. For example, I like reading sometimes before I go to bed. I play Pokémon or watch YouTube during my lunch. I listen to audiobooks while I do chores or errands.
Spread it out and don’t oversaturate yourself
Goes hand in hand with my last point. For some people this is fine, like binge-watching Gray’s Anatomy or a new season of a show during a week. But try another TV show sometimes. Give that two days, and either go back to your main show or try another. What I do now is that I spend most of my week playing games, and then I watch a movie on the weekend.
Or I only spend an hour to an hour and a half on a certain video game so that I don’t get tired of it sooner than later. The extra time can go to something else, like reading, cleaning or drawing.
Some hobbies are a little different, like exercise, cooking and recreational sports. They are practical and always stimulating. Maybe a little change in routine or recipe book can keep things interesting?
Keep in mind your hobbies if it intertwines with your work/career. Since you’re dealing with it most of the day, it’s best to do it as a decompression practice rather than another task.
That's all I have for you guys! Never stop what you love doing, but make sure you have time to do it all!