Hobbies are activities we enjoy doing in our leisure time, but as moms, leisure time can be hard to come by.
We have to stop putting aside our own needs and start taking care of ourselves, too.
When we don't give time to ourselves, we begin to fall into a rut and lose our sense of identity. Hobbies give us a sense of fulfillment, they calm us, and they bring us joy--which ultimately keeps us sane in the midst of endless diaper changes and children's songs on repeat.
You're a mom now, but you're also still YOU.
You may have had a hobby you loved before becoming a mom, but maybe it's not a realistic one anymore, whether due to time, money, or some other reason. And that's okay! There are plenty of hobbies out there to try that are less demanding, less time consuming, and more cost efficient.
If you find yourself in desperate need of a hobby, but you're not too sure where to start, I've written out a list of 10 low-cost hobbies perfect for stay-at-home-moms to try out. I've also included links to affordable resources to get you started! *Disclaimer: I do not receive any payments or financial benefits from purchases related to these links.
1. Drawing
You don't have to be an artsy person to enjoy drawing. Maybe just doodling while listening to a podcast will bring you joy.
My sister-in-law is a fantastic artist, while I used to be a graphic designer. Drawing doesn't come as easily to me, but we both enjoy the challenge of using Create This Book 2. This paperback book has 100 unique prompts to get you drawing and crafting on each page.
Find it on Amazon for $12.99
2. Coloring
Adult coloring books have been all the rage for quite some time now. I remember many of my friends using them in college. As much as I love coloring, I didn't jump on the bandwagon until having my son. Now I keep a couple of books in a basket by the couch and use them multiple times a week.
One book in particular that I just love is this adorable mommy + me coloring book by Paige Tate & Co. My son and I like to sit and color our matching pages to quiet down just before nap time.
Find on Amazon for $12.99
Pair with these "grown up" colored pencils by Crayola.
3. Embroidery
Embroidery was a hobby I enjoyed well before motherhood. It was easy, relaxing, and a creative outlet. It's something I could even do while watching tv.
There are starter kits with patterns like this one... or, you can just go for it and get inspiration from Pinterest.
Find it on Amazon for $14.99
4. Baking
Baking is a great hobby that can be done alone or with others. You might consider taking up baking with your husband, a girlfriend, or your mom! Pick one or two recipes a week until you've tried a large variation of treats.
One of my favorite things to bake is Chocolate Zucchini Bread. Find my recipe here!
5. Journaling
The best thing about journaling is that it's completely, 100%, you! Journaling is a personal hobby that has no limitations. Some ideas for journaling:
use a journal to vent about the day
use a journal to remember special moment
use a journal as a creative planner
use a journal to jot down ideas
use a journal to keep track of things such as books read, movies watched, places to go, etc.
use a journal for prayers or Bible studies
I keep a journal for my son that I wrote in every month for his first year and then twice a year after. I even kept a journal through college that I wrote in for my future husband--I gave it to my husband as an engagement present. But I also keep around these awesome little kraft paper journals that can serve for any purpose.
Find the 6-pack on Amazon for $12.98
6. Reading
Probably one of the oldest hobbies in the book... pun not intended. While there are millions of books out there, many people struggle with the question, "What should I read?"
When you can't get to a library, or if you want a more streamlined way to search for your next read, check out Goodreads.com.
7. Jogging
Grab some earbuds or headphones and throw on some comfy leggings, and go for a jog. This hobby doubles as an easy workout! Breathing in some fresh air and getting out of the house is refreshing for your body, soul, and mind.
8. Scrapbooking
Scrapbooking doesn't have to be expensive. There are many scrapbooks out there that are pre-made and just waiting for your special touch.
If you haven't already put together a baby book, now's a great opportunity! I bought this Hello Baby scrapbook for my son right before he was born. I love how easy it is to fill out. They have a matching one for baby girls, too.
Find both on Amazon for $19.99
9. Gardening
If you have a green thumb, this one's for you... Whether it be a few herbs in your kitchen window or a flourishing array of flowers in your yard, growing and tending to plants of any kind can be such a rewarding experience.
If you have interest in growing your own fruits and vegetables, you should subscribe to the YouTube channel The Busy Gardener. My friends have transformed part of their backyard into a miniature orchard. You can check out the website, too: thebusygardener.com
10. Blogging
This hobby is obviously one I enjoy. The fun thing about blogging is that you can do it for your own personal pleasure, or you can turn it into something to really build connections with others.
I have been using Bright & Cheerful Motherhood as a way to connect with other moms and to promote my small shop of digital family resources.
Two easy ways to start blogging are through Instagram (called micro-blogging) or through Wix.com to easily build your blog site. What I love most about Wix is how user-friendly it is when it comes to design.
When you've decided on a new hobby to try out, the most important thing to remember is that you don't have to stick to it if you don't want to. The point is to find something that YOU love and enjoy. Keep looking until you find one that best fits your life.
What are some hobbies you enjoy? Did I leave out any good ones? Comment below!
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