Hobbies Can Remain Hobbies

Written By: Alexa Frederick

Image by Caroline Veronez

In class, we have been reading Keep Going, which gives creative tips, and one quote about the growing obsessions with side hustles spoke to me. He says, “We used to have hobbies; now we have ‘side hustles’” (Kleon, 2019, p. 71). While it is short, I found it very true.

Context

Ever since joining the Miami Dade Honors College and stepping out of high school, I’ve found that there is a growing pressure to solidify your career for the next 40+ years the moment you step in. This has resulted in me being unable to try anything new or participate in hobbies because they are not advancing me in my chosen career path, which made me feel like I had to abandon the things I liked to do for the sake of academic and career success.

Why This Matters

This is important because it’s vital to remember that every action and activity we enjoy doesn’t have to be an advancement, achievement, or money maker. When hobbies become jobs, it is very common to lose the passion for them, as most people prefer to create just for the sake of it. Not profiting off of a hobby doesn’t make it any less vital, as having passions outside of career-work is good for our spirits and sense of self.

Yes, But

In a world that is very economically focused, it is difficult to make the money you need. Even when you make money and are able to cover all your expenses, it’s hard to not feel guilty for “wasting your time” when you’re doing something that makes you happy yet is not making you any profit. This problem is exactly what drives people to turn their hobbies into side-hustles: to relieve the guilt and stress.

The Challenge

The challenge is to learn how to separate your career and academics with your personal life. The two do not have to intervene with one another in such extensive ways. While activities you do outside of work and school can benefit you by earning you accolades or experience/skill, sometimes it is necessary to simply exist and have fun with a passion of yours whether you’re good or bad at it.

The Takeaway

Take time in your week to practice your hobbies and work to rid yourself of guilt for doing so. You are doing just fine and taking a moment to enjoy something you’re passionate about is never a waste. Focus on creating a healthy balance between professional and personal life.