Are you looking forward to retirement, but wondering what in the world you’re going to do with all that free time? Finding a hobby you love is one way to feel fulfilled after your working years. Hobbies can help you stay physically active, keep your mind sharp, and connect you to new friends.
And there are so many possibilities to choose from! You can finally get into that hobby you’ve been itching to do for years but never had the time for, or check out an exciting activity that’s totally new to you.
Not sure where to start? Get your wheels turning with these eight (8) hobby ideas to do in retirement.
Writing
Have you always dreamed of writing a novel? Retirement is the perfect time to do it! You can find tons of how-to guides that can help you dive into your new novel, memoir, cookbook or children’s book. You could even start a blog based on your interests or experiences!
And you can write almost anywhere – from the comfort of a cozy chair, at your favorite coffee shop, in your neighborhood park, or even a beach chair at the beach.
Gardening
Whether you’re growing fresh veggies for dinner, transforming your backyard into a tranquil Zen garden or vying for a blue ribbon with your gorgeous roses, gardening is one of the hobbies to do in retirement that ticks a lot of boxes. It’s creative and inexpensive, it promotes relaxation, physical exercise and connection with nature, and you can do it alone or with others. Plus, your friends will be more than happy to share your summertime bounty of tomatoes and zucchini! The internet is full of resources and kits for first-time gardeners, like mini herb gardens, beginner tool kits, unique vegetable kits and bonsai starters.
Fitness or Sports
Love yoga? Crazy for tennis? If you’re wondering about hobbies to do in your retirement that could help your overall wellness, the answer could lie in your morning workout or favorite sport. Staying physically active has huge benefits for your health. There’s so much to choose from, both indoors and outdoors, low-impact and high – yoga, hiking, cycling, running, swimming, tai chi, Zumba, rock climbing, walking, weightlifting.
Need more golf, basketball, softball or tennis in your life? Join a club or community league to make friends and have fun playing your favorite sport.
Crafting
There’s something so satisfying about making things with your hands, especially after a career that involves sitting at a desk.
Here are some ideas to explore:
- Woodworking
- Pottery
- Stained Glass
- Mosaics
- Crocheting
- Sewing
- Quilting
- Scrapbooking
- Jewelry making
Create items that are useful, beautiful or both. Design tiles for your new garden, knit cute scarves for your grandkids, sew blankets for people in need, build the perfect dining table. You can also try learning something new by getting a kit with instructions and all the materials you need.
Learn To Play a Musical Instrument
Maybe you played piano when you were young but had to give it up, or you’ve always wanted to learn the violin but never had time.
It’s never too late to learn a new instrument, and studies have found the process can improve your memory, boost concentration and reduce stress.
Sign up for one-on-one lessons, tune in to instructors on YouTube, or check out a how-to guide for your instrument of choice. Make music with new friends at a weekly jam session or join a community orchestra.
Dancing
Dancing is a wonderful way to meet new friends and stay active in your retirement. There are so many styles of dance to choose from, you’re sure to find one that matches your physical ability and musical taste.
Try swing dancing, waltz, contra, salsa or country line dancing. Most community dances offer a free lesson before the main event, or you can build your confidence with lessons at a dance studio (uncomfortable costumes not required!).
Travel
Want to see the world? Whether you’re planning the ultimate barbecue road trip or want to sip wine at a Parisian café, with your newly flexible schedule, retirement is the perfect time to travel. You might not be able to go anywhere just yet, but it’s never too early to start planning.
Photography
Have you always dreamed of getting into photography? These days there are plenty of affordable, entry-level digital SLR cameras to choose from. Get started with a photography class to learn your craft and make new friends.
Through taking photos, you can explore your city, engage with nature, document your travels and capture moments with your family. You’ll gain technical skills, develop your artistic side and create something special to share with others.
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