Everyone enjoys and wants some kind of activity to hang loose, unwind, and chill out. These activities include hobbies and particular interests based on an individual’s disposition, environment, talents, character, and other things. It’s not uncommon to want a diversion from what’s routine, stressful, and sometimes all-consuming in our lives.

Perhaps there’s something you’re interested in that you haven’t explored or tried for one reason or another. If time, opportunity, expense, or some other previous hindrance is no longer an issue, why not go for it?

Can’t get past your inner critic?

Tell and convince your inner critic that a hobby or interest does a mind, self-esteem, and body good. Partner and work with your inner critic; you can handle constructive critiques and control those that could hold you back.

After all, your inner critic is a part of you.

Having an inner critic is not a bad thing; the inner critic has our interests at heart and tries to protect us.

Owning but pushing past your inner critic’s fears and other people’s comments and criticisms isn’t impossible. Many of us believe it’s best to have tried and declined than never to have tried at all.

I deal with and calm my inner critic about my writing, especially when I’m frustrated and trying to meet my own expectations.

I really have to watch out for this one from my inner critic: NO ONE WANTS TO READ OR HEAR WHAT YOU HAVE TO SAY!

If only one person benefits and is encouraged by a post, my goal is achieved, plus I enjoy what I do.

Some people’s special pastimes and interests don’t involve others, but many do. But do what you enjoy doing.

Maybe you want to learn how to golf, crochet, bake, play the piano or drums, decorate, paint, or some other ‘one-day-I’ll-get-to-it’ venture.

Many learn a craft or skill for self-fulfillment that involves no scrutiny from others. They also don’t desire to become a professional, which usually requires a higher level of training, creativity, and expertise.

When it comes to self-care, doing what makes us feel good mentally, emotionally, and physically is important.

A pastime or avocation is supposed to be fun and indulging, not stressful like a J-O-B. Some people take up photography as an avocation instead of a vocation or career.

Non-professional pursuits can give us new and more positive perspectives on daily life. Pastimes, hobbies, and various interests place us in the moment, are relaxing, and create memories.

Because special interests and passions are creative outlets, they decrease stress and boredom. Through these outlets, we learn about ourselves, and these interests sometimes become a medium for healing, meditation, and therapy.

Writing is my hobby, not a profession. I’m not saying your profession cannot also be your hobby, but this doesn’t have to be the case.

Special-interest skills allow self-expression and creativities that relate to our emotions and frame unique perspectives.

There are online courses for all kinds of interests.

There’s no time like now to start a new interest.

Don’t permit you inner critic to bully you!

Do it for yourself!

Be safe