Over the past couple of years, many of us engaged in activities that helped us feel connected to our surroundings. Whether with the natural world or with other people, our desire for connection was encouraged by prolonged isolation and, quite frankly, our ability to care.
While our jobs transformed and our social lives disappeared, we likely found a hobby that filled our time and got us by. Nevertheless, a group of people can also undertake creative pursuits and, at best, grow into a community activity that inspires and attracts interest.
What examples of hobbies can make a difference in the community?
1. Urban gardening
Community gardens have become popular in places where food is scarce and expensive. In cities, it is usually done on rooftops for apartment residents. As more people move to the city centers, children are born without seeing large plots of land. Developing a green thumb through an urban garden is one of the best and easiest ways to do something good.
2. Wildlife photography
It is probably one of the more expensive hobbies, but it doesn’t need to be. Outdoor lovers can benefit from engaging in birdwatching, hiking, and even scuba diving. Taking pictures of nature relaxes not only the body and mind but also captures a unique moment where an image can inspire a movement. The world’s most famous wildlife photographers are environmentalists and advocates themselves.
3. Thrifting
To the shopaholic, thrifting can be as therapeutic as a body massage. Shopping at flea markets enables sellers to find a new home for their pre-loved items. It also gives quality products a second lease at life.
4. Plant-based cooking
Saving the planet requires more than just eating less meat and more vegetables. Plant-based foods that look and taste like animal protein are becoming more accessible. Learning how to cook using meat alternatives and plain vegetables can be interesting to the occasional chef. It’s on the list because raising awareness about the impact of our food production systems starts with desirable alternatives.
5. Coding with kids
Turning a hobby into an educational opportunity is a gift. Nowadays, it is ubiquitous to encounter code even through our smartphones. Because they are quick learners, children are the ideal beneficiaries for expert skills to be passed on, so it’s better to have fun while at it.
Hobbies that give back
Understanding that different people have various interests, we must accept that hobbies are just mindfulness habits to improve our physical and mental state. It can be something we are good at or suck at, but a hobby keeps us engaged.
Spending our time and energy into something good not only enriches our lives but also of others. Because hobbies are activities we invest time in, it should not be confused with pro bono activities even though our hobbies can become a viable source of income. Teaching others and involving the community is a great way to pay it forward.