“Do you have any hobbies?” It’s a common question asked when dating, during job interviews, and occasionally when someone finds out you’ve been watching a lot of Netflix. It might seem like an obvious question but many people find there is little time for hobbies outside of work and managing their personal lives.

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Having a hobby is important, and can help your health and happiness in more ways than you imagine. Why should you get a hobby? Find out more below.

It helps you switch off

Whether you work in a demanding job or you’ve got a busy home life, your hobby can be your escape. Finding something fun to do with your free time will help you to switch off from the stresses of the day and allow you to do something for yourself. Discover hobbies that relax you and help take your mind off things to reduce stress in your life.

It helps improve your health

Hobbies that are more active can be a great way to improve your health and wellbeing. From taking up yoga to writing, there are plenty of hobbies that will improve your health. Many people see exercising as a hobby, and turning your fitness into something you enjoy will help you feel more motivated to do it. Consider joining a fitness class or start running as an enjoyable hobby that will also help you get into shape.

It can become much more than just a hobby

While hobbies might start out as a fun way to pass the time, they can develop into so much more than that. Some hobbies can even be turned into a career. A hobby with a goal, such as restoring an airplane from aircraft parts or putting together a classic car can give you a lot of joy, with a great end result. Hobbies help you to discover your passions, so you never know where yours could lead.

It can help you become more interesting

Having hobbies gives you interests that set you apart from other people, helping you to become a more interesting person. This can improve your social life, your dating life and more - giving you something to talk about and teach others.

It can help you meet new people

If you want to expand your social circle or make friends in a new town, then a hobby can be a great way to meet new people. Hobbies can take you to classes, projects and more where you can encounter people with similar interests. Social interactions and connections are essential for your happiness and wellbeing, so find hobbies that you out and about in your local community.

Finding hobbies that interest and excite you can have all kinds of benefits. Hobbies help you to keep learning as you get older, keeping your mind sharp and broadening your horizons. From meeting new people to helping you stay in shape, they can be a great way to give your health a boost. Could starting a new hobby benefit your life? Start something new today and find out.