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Being an active part of the workforce, we're constantly juggling deadlines, meetings, and endless to-do lists. However, I've learned something valuable after years of feeling like I was always "on": having a hobby is absolutely essential for our mental health, creativity, and overall well-being; it can also reveal a great deal about our personality.

I used to think hobbies were a luxury I couldn't afford. Between my demanding job and maintaining some semblance of a social life, where was I supposed to find time for pottery or painting? But then I realized I was approaching it all wrong. The right hobby doesn't add stress to your life; it melts it away.

Why Hobbies Are Essential for Our Well-Being

Let's talk about why hobbies matter so much for our lives, especially when we are navigating demanding careers. Hobbies serve as powerful stress relievers, providing our minds with a much-needed break from work-related pressures and allowing us to enter what psychologists call "flow state"—that magical zone where time seems to disappear and we're completely absorbed in the present moment. This mental reset isn't just relaxing; it's restorative, helping to reduce cortisol levels and combat burnout before it takes hold.

Beyond stress relief, hobbies foster creativity and problem-solving skills that directly benefit our professional lives. When we engage different parts of our brains through creative pursuits, we're literally building new neural pathways that enhance our ability to think outside the box at work. They also provide a sense of accomplishment and progress that's entirely separate from our career metrics, giving us confidence and joy that isn't tied to performance reviews or client feedback. Most importantly, hobbies help us maintain our identity beyond our job titles. They serve as a reminder that we're multifaceted individuals with diverse interests, not just our roles in the office. This sense of wholeness contributes to better relationships, improved self-esteem, and a more balanced perspective on life's challenges.

Whether you're looking to unwind after a particularly brutal week or want to develop a skill that might even complement your career, I believe that the following seven hobbies are perfect for our busy lives—plus the Amazon finds that will set you up for success from day one.

1. Journaling: Your Mental Health Game-Changer

Let’s start with something that requires literally zero artistic ability: journaling. I cannot overstate how much this simple practice has changed my life. After incorporating just 5 minutes of morning journaling into my morning routine, I noticed I was more focused at work, less reactive to stress, and honestly just happier overall.

Journaling isn't just about documenting your day (though that's valid too). It's a way to process emotions, set intentions, track patterns, and create space for self-reflection that our busy lives rarely allow. And nothing is more motivating to start journaling than a great notebook. Personally, I have tried some and the following are the ones that are worth your money and your thoughts.

The Amazon Essentials

• Rocketbook Smart Reusable Notebook: This is the perfect choice if you are eco-conscious as well as a fan of the digital world, and you want the tactile experience of writing but love digital organization
• Leuchtturm1917 Hardcover Notebook: The gold standard for serious journalers with high-quality paper that won't bleed through
• FIOVER Gel Pens: Because the right pen makes all the difference in your writing experience

Commit to just five minutes each morning. Try stream-of-consciousness writing, gratitude lists, or goal-setting. There's no wrong way to do it.

2. Indoor Plant Parenting: Bringing Nature to Your Space

If you're like me and spend most of your day staring at screens in windowless conference rooms, having plants in your living space can be as therapeutic as it gets. There's something incredibly grounding about caring for living things, and studies show that indoor plants can reduce stress and improve air quality.

The best part? You don't need a green thumb to get started. I killed approximately seven plants before finding my groove, and now my apartment feels like a jungle oasis.

The Amazon Plant Parent Starter Pack

• VIVOSUN Grow Light: A total game-changer for apartments with limited natural light
• Mkono Plant Stand Set: Elevate your plants (literally) and create beautiful displays
• Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food: Because even plants need nutrients, and this makes feeding them foolproof
• Ceramic Planter Set with Drainage: Proper drainage prevents root rot—trust me on this one

Don’t try to become a gardener at once. I’ve tried it and I failed. It’s best to start with low-maintenance plants, such as pothos, snake plants, or ZZ plants. They're nearly indestructible and will boost your confidence as you expand your collection.

3. Photography: Capturing Life Through a New Lens

Photography taught me to see beauty in ordinary moments, a skill that has been incredibly valuable both personally and professionally. Whether you're documenting weekend adventures or practicing portrait photography with friends, this hobby encourages you to slow down and really observe your surroundings.

Plus, if you're in marketing, social media, or any visual field, photography skills are directly transferable to your career. I've used photos I've taken for company social media, presentations, and even my LinkedIn profile.

Essential Amazon Photography Gear

• Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Camera: Professional quality without the professional price tag
• Neewer Photography Lighting Kit: Perfect for indoor portraits or product photography
• Amazon Basics Camera Bag: Protect your investment with quality storage
• Joby GripTight Smartphone Tripod: Don't underestimate phone photography—this tripod will elevate your Instagram game

If you are reluctant to start photography because it seems like an expensive hobby, remember that you don't need expensive equipment to begin. Start with your smartphone and a tripod and focus on composition and lighting. A great idea is to take the free online courses that come with many Amazon photography purchases.

4. Cooking and Baking: Nourishing Creativity

I know what you're thinking: "I barely have time to heat up leftovers, let alone cook as a hobby." But, it is proven (at least by me) that cooking and baking can be incredibly meditative, and there's something deeply satisfying about creating something delicious with your own hands.

I started with simple Sunday meal prep sessions and gradually worked up to trying more complex recipes. Now, cooking is my primary way to decompress after stressful workdays, and my friends and partner actually request my homemade pasta at dinner parties.

Amazon Kitchen Game-Changers

• Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1: The busy woman's best friend—pressure cooker, slow cooker, and more all in one. I can’t live without it in the kitchen.
• KitchenAid Stand Mixer: An investment that will last decades and make baking actually enjoyable.
• Victorinox Fibrox Pro Chef's Knife: A professional-quality knife that will change how you feel about food prep
• Glass Meal Prep Containers (12-Pack): Make cooking work for your busy schedule with proper storage

A time-saving strategy is to batch cook on Sundays. Make large portions of soups, grain bowls, or casseroles that you can enjoy throughout the week.

5. Reading: Expanding Your Mind and World

Before you roll your eyes and think "I know reading is good for me," let me challenge you to approach it differently. Instead of forcing yourself through books you think you should read, choose books that genuinely excite you. Romance novels, thrillers, memoirs, graphic novels—it all counts.

Reading has made me a better writer, a more interesting conversationalist, and has provided countless hours of escapism from work stress. I've also discovered that audiobooks during commutes or walks transform dead time into learning time.

Amazon Reading Essentials

• Kindle Paperwhite: Waterproof, easy on the eyes, and holds thousands of books
• Book Stand for Reading: Reduce neck strain during long reading sessions, especially if you already spend hours in front of a screen
• Blue Light Blocking Reading Glasses: Protect your eyes during evening reading sessions

Set a realistic goal, like 15 pages per day or one book per month. Join online book clubs or use apps like Goodreads to stay motivated and get recommendations and read the 15 books we are reading this fall for inspiration.

6. Yoga and Meditation: Mind-Body Wellness

As someone who used to think meditation was "boring" and yoga was "too slow," I can tell you that both practices have been transformative for managing work stress and improving overall well-being. You don't need to be flexible or particularly zen to start—you just need to be willing to try.

I started with 10-minute YouTube videos in my living room and gradually worked up to longer sessions. The mental clarity and physical strength I've gained have made me more resilient at work and more present in my personal relationships.

Amazon Wellness Must-Haves:

• Manduka Yoga Mat: Non-slip, durable, and provides the perfect amount of cushioning
• Yoga Blocks and Strap Set: Essential props that make poses accessible and safe
• Meditation Cushion: Proper support makes longer meditation sessions comfortable
• Essential Oils Diffuser: Create a calming atmosphere for your practice that will boost your mood

Download apps like Headspace or try free YouTube channels. Commit to just 10 minutes daily for the first month.

7. DIY Crafting: Creating with Your Hands

There's something incredibly satisfying about making something beautiful with your own two hands. Whether it's knitting, jewelry making, or upcycling furniture, crafting provides a creative outlet that's completely different from our digital work lives.

I discovered polymer clay jewelry making during the pandemic, and it's become my favorite way to unwind. I've even started gifting my creations and have friends asking me to make custom pieces. It's amazing how a hobby can evolve into something more meaningful.

Amazon Craft Room Starter Kit:

• Craft Storage Cart: Organization is key to maintaining a sustainable crafting habit
• Polymer Clay Starter Kit: Everything you need to begin making jewelry, miniatures, or decorative items
• LED Desk Lamp with Magnifying Glass: Proper lighting and magnification for detailed work

Try different crafts through beginner kits before investing in expensive supplies. YouTube tutorials are your best friend for learning new techniques.

Making It Work: Practical Tips for Busy Women

Schedule It: Treat hobby time like you would any other important appointment. Block out time in your calendar and protect it fiercely.

Start Small: You don't need to dedicate hours to see benefits. Even 20-30 minutes can be restorative.

Create Space: Designate a specific area for your hobby, even if it's just a corner of your bedroom or a basket that you can easily pull out.

Connect with Others: Join online communities, local classes, or find hobby buddies. The social aspect adds another layer of enjoyment and accountability.

Remember that hobbies are supposed to be enjoyable, not another source of stress. Progress isn't the point; presence is.

The Ripple Effect

Here's what I've noticed since prioritizing hobbies in my life: I'm more creative at work, better at problem-solving, and significantly less burned out. Having interests outside of my career has made me a more well-rounded person and, honestly, more interesting at networking events.

My cooking experiments led to hosting dinner parties that strengthened my personal relationships and made my loved ones happy and fulfilled. My journaling practice helped me gain clarity on a major career decision.

Hobbies can do so much to fill your life with joy, creativity, and personal growth. In our achievement-oriented culture, we sometimes forget that not everything needs to be productive or goal-oriented. Sometimes, the most radical thing we can do is pursue something simply because it brings us happiness.