Do you know the number one cause of stress in the United States? The answer, which may or may not surprise you, is the workplace. In fact, The American Institute of Stress reports that 120,000 people die annually due to work-related stress.
Whether you’re a busy entrepreneur running a company on a shoestring budget or a professional working for a boss, remember that all work and no play is no way to live. Life’s too short to spend it feeling stressed.
While not all stress is avoidable, some of it is. Sometimes it’s about setting boundaries and standing your ground. But another way to let your hair down and relax is to find a hobby. There are tons of them.
Continue reading to see five hobbies for busy professionals who need to unwind.
Gaming
According to the Academy of Animated Art, the number of video game players worldwide is 3.2 billion. Of that tally, 1.17 billion play online. The source adds that, among other things, people are increasingly spending their free time enjoying video games.
It’s the perfect way for busy professionals to unwind — particularly since there are so many genres to suit people with different interests.
One thing to consider is that gaming is more enjoyable when you have a dedicated gaming laptop. And, no, you don’t have to pay an arm and a leg to get a good machine for gameplay. Whether playing the latest titles alone, with a group of friends at your home, or with a huge group of people online, gaming might become the best hobby you ever pursued.
Instrument
One source notes that 52% of U.S. households have at least one individual, five years old or more, who currently plays a musical instrument. The percentage drops to 40% when looking at households with two or more people who play musical instruments.
Whether you get a music teacher, learn to play by ear, or check out online tutorials, investing time to learn how to play one or more instruments will be time well-spent. It can provide a welcome break from your day-to-day work responsibilities.
Playing an instrument improves brain function, concentration, listening skills, and more. So, it’s a hobby that can help at work, at home, or anywhere else.
Learning a New Language
There are around 3.3 billion bilingual people around the world, translating to 43% of the population. You might be interested in learning a new language. It might be that you’re unilingual and want to change that or already know multiple languages and want to learn more.
Learning a new language can enrich your life personally and professionally.
Photography
Another interesting hobby is photography. It can be a great way to tap into your inner creativity. You don’t have to go out and spend a ton on expensive and sophisticated equipment either.
As you get started, you can take pictures with your smartphone and use photo editing apps to improve the end product. You can take pics anywhere, so it’s a great hobby.
Gardening
Do you want to reduce stress while doing something that offers mental, physical, and social benefits? Give gardening a try. Spending time outdoors will get you the vitamin D you need and lower stress; you’ll also get physical activity and enjoy a social component if family members join you in working the earth, planting seeds, and reaping bountiful crops.
Life’s too short to spend it being miserable. But that’s exactly what’ll happen if you have no life outside of work. Try one of these hobbies. If they’re not your cup of tea, find another hobby to enjoy.
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