How to Find a New Hobby That Brings You Happiness

Out with the old, in with the new! Last year, you got rid of all the clutter that didn’t bring you joy. Now, you have space in your life for a new hobby. If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to find a new hobby or learn a new skill, we’re here to help you stick to it.

No matter what you’re into or what your budget is, we’ll walk you through how to pick a new hobby that will bring you happiness as you make a fresh start this year.

What New Hobby Should I Start?

When you want to find a new hobby, the possibilities can be overwhelming! The first step, though, is to figure out what new hobby will best suit your preferences and your life. First, ask yourself a few questions:

• How do I spend my free time?
• What did I enjoy doing as a kid?
• What would an ideal day of fun look like for me?
• What do I enjoy buying?

Answering these questions can help you determine what new hobby to start. Do you love going to fancy restaurants on weekends? You could take up cooking and learn how to make your own signature dishes! Do you like watching interior design shows? Then redecorate your bedroom with upgraded furniture and unique accents that bring out your inner designer. Does a good book excite you? Try writing your own! Are you energized when you find a trendy new outfit at the mall? Learn to sew and create one-of-a-kind statement pieces for your wardrobe.

Whatever you choose, remember that your hobby is what you make it. You don’t have to devote hours to it every weekend (unless you want to!) — you can fit a new hobby into your life however you want.

When it comes to how to choose a new hobby, keep happiness at the center of your focus. The last thing you want is for your hobby to become “just another to-do” or, worse, a total drag. Also, remember that you can always change your hobby later! If you tried something new and didn’t love it, that’s okay! It’s never a bad time to start over with a new hobby.

How to Find a New Hobby That Can Improve Your Life

Still not sure how to find a new hobby? Ask yourself this: “What’s something I’d like to change in my life?” Think about what bothers you on a daily or weekly basis, then brainstorm ways you can use your free time to improve them.

If you’re looking to add more social interaction or new experiences to your life, make a bucket list of new restaurants or workout studios you’d like to try. Grab a buddy to go with you, and check out sites like Groupon to find deals! Do events and concerts make your heart happy? Look for free events in your town and get to know the local scene. Explore new music or entertainment options with cheap tickets from sites like Gametime.

Getting out and exploring local happenings can help you expand your friend group, while also giving you a new appreciation for where you live. That’s a win-win!

Want more of a hands-on hobby? There’s no better way to spend your time than upgrading the space where you spend the most time: your home! Choose a beginner-friendly home improvement project, and spend a weekend adding your unique flavor to your home. Jump into DIY projects with a rent-to-own Porter-Cable Power Tool Kit, and consult home improvement blogs or YouTube for step-by-step project tutorials.

How to Choose a New Hobby on a Budget

Once you’ve decided what new hobby to try, start small. There’s no need to break the bank when you choose a new hobby.

For cooking, invest in one or two new gadgets instead of dropping serious cash on all new kitchenware. For arts and crafts, find an inexpensive secondhand sewing machine or choose small knitting, scrapbooking, or painting projects that require minimal supplies. Begin with the basics and build your collection of hobby-related items over time as you determine what you want and need.

For home improvement, don’t rush out and buy power tools — rent a cordless power tool kit from Rent-A-Center to get you started.

Want to redecorate your home? Look for rent-to-own furniture and decorative accents at Rent-A-Center. Try out a new style with the freedom to upgrade at any time. Shop online today, or head to your nearest Rent-A-Center location to find what you need to start your new hobby. Here’s to keeping your New Year’s resolution!