Hobbies Over Hustles: Get Somethin’ for Yourself
There are a lot of reasons why we are obsessed with hustling; fear of failure, the constant need to be busy, needing more money, trying to break generational curses, etc. However, when do we ever keep something for ourselves for our own enjoyment? Hardly ever and right now, more than ever, it’s killing us.
Most of us sane people are hunkering down right now and following clear factual instructions. We are working from home, teaching kids from home, being at home…..all the time. Every day. All-day. With our own thoughts, demons, anxieties, and stress. This is only made worst when you realize that you don’t have anything to turn to; that’s just for you.
I’m guilty of this. One of my favorite hobbies is planning. Yes, planning. Now, more of a creative approach by decorating and crafting spreads, but it’s still centered around my compulsive need to have plans, schedules, and an impressive to-do list. Now that my day is looking Groundhog Day-ish, I don’t have much to put in my planner.
I realized I don’t have a hobby that I can use as an escape that isn’t somehow attached to wanting to further my career or my vision for my life. Lately, I’ve been reflecting, and I’m actually jealous of those who have hobbies. Activities they enjoy for the sake of enjoyment. Not to make a profit, not to turn into a way out, but a purely enjoyable activity because they like it and want to do it.
Don’t get me wrong, I do have pastimes. I like watching TV and listening to music and cooking casually, but I don’t consider those hobbies.
I’ve asked around, and quite a few of my friends, especially my Black woman tribe, and all admitted to battling the feelings of depression and anxiety during this time of COVID-19. I asked a follow-up question about a hobby without the hustle, and most didn’t have one.
A few said makeup was a hobby, but after more discussion, we realized it was rooted in the need to present themselves as attractive and well put together.
We need hobbies!!! So I’ve been brainstorming ideas for my new hobby, and it’s not been easy. Some hobbies just don’t interest me while others seem expensive. As much as I hate to admit it, every other idea presents itself as a new hustle. What I do know at this moment is that the outside is not looking too safe to open up, and I need to develop a healthy hobby.
Lyrical Lesson:
Port of Miami/Port of my candy/Ain’t got nothing to lose (nah)/We suppotin’ the family/Never traffic for fun (fun)/Only traffic for funds (funds)/All I seen was the struggle (struggle)/Its like I’m trapped in this slum
~ Push It, Rick Ross
Now is a great time to start dabbling. I realized that I need to just try things out and stop trying to strategize the perfect hobby. The ideal hobby is going to be the one that makes me smile. In return, this new hobby, whatever it’s going to be, is going to get my full protection. Boundaries will be set, and hustle will not be allowed. Deacon Ricky’s lyrics reminded me that I can have fun without funds.
I’ll be sure to update you on my quest.
