Learning a new hobby or skill is one that takes patience, time and a lot of practise. To know that you’re doing it to a great standard rather than passable is what to aim for. It seems that in many cases, as soon as you become a parent you aren’t given the right to learn something new unless it’s to do with your child – that’s simply not the case. There are things that you may not have even considered taking up; it seems that we follow trends or what our peers are doing for validation that what are indulging in is safe and correct, and so that things are fine if it goes wrong or we drop it. But taking a step outside of the norm and involving yourself in interests that aren’t necessarily the in thing is definitely the way forward.
Music
If you already play a musical instrument, chances are that you know what sort of music you like and you stick to it. Step outside of the boundaries once in awhile and see how much you are really missing. If you are used to playing slow, romantic pieces on a piano for example, swap it for Chopin’s livelier Etudes – it’ll certainly be something to get your fingers working. If you haven’t learned an instrument but are keen to do so, take a look at the lesser-played ones to start with – you may just be picking up on a niche that could be a talking point at parties if nothing else. If you can’t find a local tutor, have a look online for video lessons to help you begin.
Building
If not building directly, then learning the trades associated with building is definitely something handy to know – at the very least it’s fun. You may not have all of the materials required to get you started on your way to becoming a building or construction pro, but most people just pick them up as and when they need them as they go along. Take a look around for the items that you think are necessary to what you want to do; for instance, if you are interest in metalwork, you could get a welder to get you started. Take into account the reviews that those experienced with these tools may have, such as what this miller mig welder review describes. You may need somebody a bit more experienced to show you more technical sides of it, and how to use the machinery especially. If you’re not too convinced by investing your money into something just yet, see if you can borrow a piece from a friend or neighbour.
Crafts
There are so many crafts that are available for you to get stuck into that it’s hard to know where to start. You could take a look at the crafting magazine section in your local store, or even have a peek on Pinterest to see what’s up and coming there. There will always be an online community of crafters in whichever route you decide to take who are there to offer support and guidance in what you’re doing – or simply just want to share ideas about creations. You could do knitting, crochet, cross stitch, felting … the list is endless. Taking it up as something to do while the kids are in bed is a great way to relax.
History
Taking an interest in history isn’t a new thing, but investing your own personal time into it can be. There is so much to learn – you just need to pick a period, a country, a person to focus on. It can definitely help you to see the world in a different perspective. The old phrase is that history repeats itself, and it can be so interested to interpret it into today’s world and see patterns emerging throughout society. It’s a hobby that can be taken upon so leisurely as well – a simple flick through Wikipedia before you go to sleep can help you brush up on your history facts and you’ll be challenging people to name the years of events before you can say Napoleon.
Health
Channeling your energy into diet and exercise isn’t as boring as it sounds. By taking part in more sports, some of which can be team ones if you prefer to mix with other people who enjoy the same thing, you are able to kick your heart into action and pump glorious endorphins all around your body. It’s something that you can get your children involved with regardless of how old they are – simply strap them on in a sling or carrier if they are really tiny!
