I feel what we lack as Pakistanis is creativity and productivity. We are so used to our routines and involvement in other people's lives and being dependent on others for emotional fulfillment. We lack contentment and fulfilment within our beings. We depend on others or look at others to find that contentment which rarely ever comes. Hobbies are a good way to occupy yourselves and helping to find that soul nourishment and commitment from within. As we step into the dawn of a new year, there's no better time to explore and cultivate hobbies that add vibrancy and fulfillment to our lives. Whether you're looking for relaxation, creativity, or a new skill to master, here's a curated list of hobbies to consider for a delightful 2024. Your hobbies don't have to be limited to these only, this list is just a starter for you to consider. 

1. Gardening

Connect with nature by nurturing your green thumb. Start a small garden, whether it's a balcony full of potted plants or a backyard oasis. Gardening not only beautifies your space but also brings a sense of tranquility and accomplishment. A lot of people are already doing it within their homes. You don't even need a big garden for this. Kitchen farming is gaining popularity given the inflation. You can plant lemons, coriander, lemon grass and garlic in limited space and save some bucks as well. 

Photo by Benjamin Combs on Unsplash

2. Photography

Capture the world through your lens and embark on a visual journey. Whether you're using a smartphone or a professional camera, photography allows you to freeze moments in time and express your unique perspective. My father's hobby has been photography and growing up I and my mum were his subjects for portrait photography. I remember hating on the idea to be the subject but now if I reflect back, I have a different perspective. The time we spent together bonded us as a family. It was better to be the subject then waiting on your father to be home and being deprived of his presence. 

Photo by Jonathan Mabey on Unsplash

3. Cooking and Baking

Transform your kitchen into a culinary playground. Experiment with new recipes, try your hand at baking artisanal bread, or explore international cuisines. Cooking and baking not only nourish the body but also ignite your creativity. Every year I take at least one small cooking course to improve my cooking skills. Over the years I have taken a lot of cooking and baking classes which have won me praises from my circle of friends and family. Not only is it a skill that wins you compliments, it also helps you save money by preparing fancy meals at home and not wasting away the money at restaurants. Also, your kids get to enjoy delicious and healthy meals from the comfort of your home. 

Photo by Maarten van den Heuvel on Unsplash

4. Hiking and Outdoor Exploration

Embrace the great outdoors by taking up hiking or exploring nearby trails. It's a fantastic way to stay active, enjoy nature, and discover hidden gems in your local area. I have very limited experience of travelling. Neither am I a great traveler. My issues revolve around neat, tidy rooms and clean bathrooms which is a novelty in Pakistan. Basic hygiene is a luxury honestly. Maintenance of facilities is ignored and you are left with limited and expensive options to explore. Ever since the baby, we haven't been able to save enough to travel. However I would love to do it once again, maybe by the end of this year. 

Photo by Larry George II on Unsplash

5. Writing and Journaling

Channel your thoughts, emotions, and creativity into words. Start a blog, pen down your daily experiences in a journal, or even try your hand at fiction. Writing can be a therapeutic outlet and a wonderful way to document your journey. I am a living example of journaling helping you along the way. My blog is my journal. Over the years, its one productive habit or hobby that has kept me sane and has also contributed to my career switch and has earned me money as well. 

I started savings journal in year 2023 as well. It helped me cultivate the habit of saving. I will do a separate blog post on the savings journal and how it helped me save over PKR 100,000 in a span of 6 months. 

Photo by Shifa Sarguru on Unsplash

6. Painting or Drawing

Unleash your inner artist by exploring the world of visual arts. Pick up a sketchpad, try watercolors, or experiment with acrylics. No need to be a professional – let your imagination flow onto the canvas.

Photo by Steve Johnson on Unsplash

7. Learning a Musical Instrument

Dive into the world of melody by learning to play a musical instrument. Whether it's the guitar, piano, or ukulele, music has the power to uplift your spirits and provide a fulfilling creative outlet.

Photo by Wes Hicks on Unsplash

8. Yoga and Meditation

Prioritize your well-being by incorporating yoga and meditation into your routine. These practices not only promote physical health but also enhance mental clarity and inner peace.

Photo by Conscious Design on Unsplash

9. DIY Crafts

Get crafty with do-it-yourself projects. From handmade cards to home décor items, the possibilities are endless. Engaging in DIY crafts allows you to express your creativity and add a personal touch to your surroundings.

Photo by Sarah Brown on Unsplash

10. Language Learning

Expand your horizons by learning a new language. Whether you dream of traveling to a specific destination or simply enjoy the mental challenge, language learning opens up new opportunities for connection and understanding.

Photo by Isaac Chou on Unsplash

11. Book Club Participation

Immerse yourself in the world of literature by joining a book club. Share your thoughts on a variety of genres, discover new authors, and enjoy the pleasure of communal reading. Book reading is also a personal favorite hobby of mine. I picked it up from my father. I remember him reading various books when I was a kid. He is the one who used to take me to Anarkali, old book shops and made me buy the books I wanted. I started my reading journey from Nancy Drew books. To date I have kept this hobby alive. It helped me learn a great deal about the happenings in the world and different cultures. 

Photo by Konstantin Dyadyun on Unsplash

12. Volunteering

Give back to your community by volunteering for a cause you're passionate about. Whether it's environmental conservation, animal welfare, or social issues, contributing your time can bring a profound sense of purpose.

Photo by The Tampa Bay Estuary Program on Unsplash

This year, make a commitment to embrace hobbies that resonate with your interests and aspirations. Whether you're delving into a new passion or rekindling an old one, cultivating hobbies adds a layer of joy and fulfillment to the tapestry of your life. Cheers to a year of exploration, growth, and joyful pursuits in 2024!