Unfortunately, too many men spend their leisure time camped out in front of the TV. While watching your favorite show on Netflix or Amazon Prime is a good pastime, this shouldn't be the only activity you engage in during your spare time. Leisure time should be taken as an opportunity to pursue one’s passions and interests. This is why hobbies are so important in every gentleman's life.
In a world that’s always on the go, where to-do lists are never-ending , hobbies allow you to unplug, keep your mind sharp, expand your creativity and help you meet new friends. Below are ten fantastic habits men can pick up in their spare time.
Woodworking
Learning how to work with wood allows you to make and fix things around the house and lets you satisfyingly connect with a long history of craftsmanship. It also offers a great escape from life stressors, allowing a man to hone his skills and possibly create meaningful gifts for his loved ones.
And in the process, you get to learn patience and how to celebrate the little victories (ask anyone who puts in some good time on their workbench).
Exercising
According to Harvard Medical School’s journal, working out releases brain chemicals key to better memory, concentration, and mental sharpness. Taking at least half-hour after work or on the weekend to exercise regularly will boost your productivity and help you better manage stress.
A man who exercises will be stronger, healthier, and will probably live longer. Which man does want to be strong and live long enough to show their sons/grandchildren how to throw a ball or mow the lawn?
Listening to Podcasts
Education should not end when you leave college. Being a lifelong learner should be a goal of every man. Learning is a lifelong skill, and many successful and influential men never stop learning. For example, reading books allows you to connect with the great thinkers and writers of history and exposes you to new ideas.
With technology, things have gotten even better. The advancement of podcast platforms has made learning new things a breeze. No matter your preferred subject matter, there’s a podcast out there that covers it.
Scuba Diving
You’re certainly a little bit limited if you live in a state without much water to explore. Also, this is a unique hobby that often requires one to take classes and become certified before participating. But if you are able to overcome these two hurdles, you are in for a wonderful time.
Scuba diving allows you to move freely underwater and makes you feel you are part of the beautiful marine life. With the Earth being 71 percent water, just imagine how many places you can explore.
Volunteering
Whether you’re working in a soup kitchen or providing mentorship to a group of young professionals, your time volunteering goes a long way toward improving the community around you.
This is an invaluable contribution to society and a great way to give back. And you never know you might make new friends or expand your business network.
Golfing
In our post, 10 Great Reasons to Join a Members Club Today, we mentioned that whether you are looking to make new friends or forge new business deals, you can never go wrong with private clubs. And what are such clubs know for the most? Golf, of course!
A round or two of golf on a beautiful golf course will always cheer up anyone after a busy day/week in the office. This might be exactly what you need the next time to have a free afternoon to spare.
Become a Whiskey Connoisseur
We have written multiple informative articles on various whiskey topics. The world of whiskey is very intriguing. Whether it’s trying out new whiskey cocktails, visiting distilleries, or becoming an expert on different whiskeys, be it Bourbon or Scotch, there’s enough to keep an enthusiast occupied for a long time.
And not to forget whiskey tasting events that often provide an unforgettable whiskey experience. The whiskey world offers a vast variety of flavors and aromas. You can even sign up for a whiskey subscription box that ships whiskeys from over the world to you every month or quarter to clients for tasting.
Learning a Martial Arts
There is a reason many martial arts have survived for centuries and why new forms are being developed every day—the benefits of learning martial arts to too numerous to state here. But to quote a few: learn how to fight, give you the ability to shield your loved ones from danger, build genuine self-confidence, and improve fitness levels.
Learning martial arts also forces you to set goals and strive to achieve them, even if it’s something as simple as keeping your chin tucked at all times. If you love competing, you’ll also get the chance to spar if not enter formal competitions in most martial arts.
Journaling
Even if just a few minutes here and there throughout the day, journaling is a rewarding habit to build. Many men don’t get an opportunity to express themselves freely. A personal journal may offer them that— a completely private space note down, examine what they are feeling, and identify what’s causing them to feel that way.
This is a habit many great men have cherished, from Ralph Waldo Emerson to Theodore Roosevelt, who dedicated a portion of their day to writing and reviewing their actions, thoughts, and feelings.
Playing a Musical Instrument
Music has a unique effect on our emotions and can positively affect our physiological functions by lowering stress levels and making us happier. Learning and mastering how to play an instrument will also teach you perseverance, discipline, consistency, and commitment— all essential skills for accomplishing anything in life.
There’s also the sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with practicing and succeeding at a song, complex chord, or musical arrangement!
Leave a comment