In case you’re new around here, you should know that I believe that starting a new hobby as an adult can be one of the most rewarding decisions you make. Whether you’ve been yearning to try watercolor painting, take up gardening, or learn to play an instrument, starting a new hobby as an adult can bring you a lot of joy. Today, I want to dive into why you should start a new hobby as an adult, talk about some of the things that might be holding you back, and even share some advice on where to get started. Sound good? 

Benefits of starting a new hobby as an adult

It sounds silly, but we could all use a permission slip every now and then, right? So if that’s you, and you need a little *left-brain* reasoning to justify some time to yourself to start a new hobby as an adult, here are three reasons why you should do it.

Mental Stimulation

Engaging in a new hobby is a great way to keep your mind sharp at any age. It stimulates different parts of the brain, encouraging creativity and problem-solving skills. Whether you're learning the intricate details of watercolor techniques or mastering the chords of a new song, your brain is continuously challenged and engaged. This mental workout can help improve memory, enhance cognitive functions, and even delay the onset of dementia and age-related cognitive decline.

Stress Relief

Let’s face it – we are all busier than we’ve ever been. That’s why finding ways to relax and unwind is so important. Hobbies provide a wonderful escape from daily stressors. The act of using your hands to create something, whether it’s a piece of art or a pottery piece can be incredibly soothing. It allows you to focus on the present moment and forget about your worries, even if just for a little while. The meditative state you reach while creating can significantly reduce stress and promote a sense of calm and well-being.

Personal Growth

Lastly, starting a new hobby as an adult is a great way to learn more about yourself and experience true personal growth. A new hobby as an adult challenges you to step out of your comfort zone, learn new skills, and discover hidden talents. You can embrace your inner child and find unfiltered creativity. The sense of accomplishment that comes from mastering a new technique or completing a project can boost your confidence and self-esteem. It’s a reminder that it’s never too late to learn and grow, which is something I’ve been feeling so many, many years now. I still learn something new every single day.

But Jenna – what about…

Because I know there might be a little loud voice in the back of your mind right now, let me help you quiet it. Here are some of the biggest objections I hear about starting a new hobby as an adult.

Time Management

Who has extra time? One of the biggest challenges adults face when starting a new hobby is finding the time. Between work, family, and other responsibilities, it can be tough to carve out time for yourself. I remember in the early days of motherhood filming Youtube videos after my kid went to sleep. So trust me — I get it.

That said, your hobbies should be treated as a form of self-care. Start small by dedicating even a few minutes each day or setting aside an hour on the weekends. You don’t need to sign up for four different classes or spend every evening working yourself to the bone. Consistency is key, and even small amounts of time can add up to significant progress. Head here next for some of my favorite daily creative challenges.

Self-doubt

This is one that nobody wants to admit, but self-doubt is another common hurdle. It’s easy to feel discouraged when you’re just starting and your skills aren’t where you want them to be. Remember, every expert was once a beginner. I remember the feeling well. Allow yourself to be a novice and embrace the learning process. Let it be FUN that you’re new at something (and bad at first). Be intentional about celebrating your progress, no matter how small, and don’t compare yourself to others. 

You’re worried you won’t be good

It’s not just you. Many adults shy away from new hobbies because they’re worried about embarrassing themselves or not being good at something. But here’s the thing, the beauty of starting a hobby is that you are a beginner at first. Skills are always developed over time with practice and patience. You probably won’t be great at first, so releasing yourself from that expectation can be freeing. Trust me.

Start a New Creative Hobby 

If you’re considering starting a new hobby, I highly recommend giving watercolor painting a try. I might be biased, but it’s a versatile and accessible medium that offers endless possibilities for creativity and expression. It’s been my favorite for over a decade now.

Here are a few more reasons why I think it’s a great hobby:

It’s Easy to Set Up: Watercolor painting requires minimal setup and materials. A few brushes, some watercolor paints, and a pad of watercolor paper are all you need to get started. You can grab a few of my favorites here to make it even easier. This simplicity makes it easy to fit into your schedule, even if you only have a few minutes to spare.

Flexibility: Watercolors are incredibly forgiving and versatile. You can create everything from delicate, translucent washes to bold, vibrant strokes. The medium encourages experimentation and play, making it perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike, and I know the repetitive motions often help me reach a meditative state which has a slew of mental health benefits.

Portability: Unlike some other art forms, watercolors are highly portable. You can take your supplies with you wherever you go, making it easy to paint on the go or while traveling. This portability allows you to incorporate your hobby into different aspects of your life, which is great for adults who have an especially busy schedule.

Have fun!

Starting a new hobby as an adult is a beautiful way to enrich your life, foster personal growth, and find joy in new experiences. It’s about giving yourself permission to explore, experiment, and enjoy the process without the pressure of perfection.

If you’re ready to dive into watercolor painting or any other hobby, remember to start small, be patient with yourself, and celebrate each step of your journey. And if you need a little guidance and inspiration, my tutorials and courses are here to help you along the way. You can also find me on Instagram, where I’m always sharing my work and proclaiming the importance of expressing yourself creatively.