Why is it that the things we loved to do in the past fade away with age? For some, it's the demands of a career that swallow up our time and energy. For others, it's the responsibilities of family life that leave little room for personal pursuits. Whatever the reason, the passions and hobbies that once brought us so much joy often take a backseat with adulthood.
Retirement brings a chance to rediscover those lost passions and old hobbies - this next chapter can be about embracing the things that truly make our hearts sing.
Here at Hively, many of our members have embarked on this journey of rediscovery. We reached out to them, to learn more about the activities they are diving back into.
Before you dive in, take a moment to reflect, and consider:
1. What is something you loved doing in the past that fell by the wayside?
2. What small steps can you take to rediscover those activities?
Why did you stop?
It's important to reflect on what caused you to pause your hobbies, interests, or passion projects. Was it due to time constraints, aging, or simply waning interest? Evaluating these questions can help you understand your current priorities, allowing you to make informed decisions about how to allocate your time and energy effectively.
Picking Up Where You Left Off
Sometimes restarting your journey is as simple as walking to the park and shooting a few hoops. Other times, it may take some digging and inspiration to kick-start your hobby. To expedite this process, we've curated our member's ideas and experiences into The Hively Collection - a selection of offers and resources that may spark a lost passion or skill. Additionally, our team hosts ongoing sessions to add structure to finding new hobbies or rediscovering old ones.
What are our members rediscovering?
Ballroom dancing. It’s a fun activity to do as a spouse and it keeps us feeling young. - Anthony
I was a tournament chess player. I don't want to do tournaments anymore, but I'd love to have an evenly matched, regular game over wine and in-person. - Lionel
Taking acting classes. I loved the camaraderie of the group and stretching myself. - Hively Member
The Benefits of Rekindling Old Hobbies
1. Mental Health and Cognitive Function:
Engaging in activities you love can have profound effects on your mental health. Hobbies that challenge your brain, like playing chess or learning a new language, can help maintain cognitive function.
Educating audiences through public speaking. - John
Writing some books I've started and writing articles for publications. - Diane
2. Physical Health:
Activities like ballroom dancing, gardening, or even taking leisurely walks can help maintain physical fitness. Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining mobility and overall health as we age.
3. Social Connections:
Hobbies often come with built-in social networks. Whether you're joining a dance class, a book club, or a community garden, these activities provide opportunities to meet new people and build lasting friendships.
4. Sense of Purpose:
Having passions and hobbies gives you something to look forward to each day. This sense of purpose can significantly improve your overall happiness and satisfaction with life.
Some type of activity with a result so you feel accomplishment - Scott
5. Stress Reduction:
Engaging in enjoyable activities can reduce stress and provide a much-needed break from the routine of daily life. This is particularly beneficial in retirement, where maintaining a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle is essential.
I would like to get back to doing photography and also playing the piano. - Nancy
Embrace the Journey
As you consider your own journey, remember that it's never too late to rekindle the passions that once brought you joy. Whether it's picking up a long-forgotten hobby or exploring a new interest, this next chapter presents the perfect opportunity to invest in yourself and your happiness.
At Hively, we're here to help you make the most of this next chapter through the collective wisdom of our member community and experts. Browse The Hively Collection or join an upcoming session to spark some ideas for what's next.