At the time that I’m writing this, we have just completed the 1st half of 2023! I just got a new job, and I am ready to get back on track after the most difficult season of my life thus far.
Like a lot of people, the global pandemic affected so many facets of life, much more than just financially, professionally, and socially. I can personally say that I am coming out of these 3 years with a new zeal to be more intentional and purposeful with my time and what I want to accomplish in life.
Me, I have been on a personal development/level-up journey, and now that I feel like settling back into my career, I want to make sure I continue to develop my skills outside of work, and make my time more fruitful by taking up hobbies!
Adulting shouldn’t have to be all work, paying bills, and no fun! We should be striving to build our confidence every day, and I’m determined to continue learning new things and nurturing my inner child!
Here are 7 hobbies to learn for self-confidence:
#1 Take up a Dance Class
I grew up taking dance classes, and when I started to get really good at it, I noticed that my confidence was better! It’s something about moving your body to the rhythm and getting a good workout that is proven to increase dopamine, endorphins, and confidence!
Whether it’s salsa, hip-hop, ballet, or any other form of dance, it can be a great hobby to build self-confidence, improve posture, and enhance body awareness. Personally, I would love to take up salsa and ballroom dance, (I used to be addicted to “Dancing with the Stars”) just to try it!
#2 Learn a New Language
Did you know that learning a new language not only is super dope but can also help prevent dementia? Learning a new language has been shown to enhance cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, problem-solving skills, and multitasking abilities. Learning a new language can also improve mental flexibility and creativity, as you can think and express yourself in multiple ways.
Learning a new language can be extremely fulfilling, as it stimulates your mind, boosts self-confidence, and provides a sense of accomplishment as you see your own progress. It also encourages lifelong learning and opens up opportunities to explore literature, music, films, and other cultural artifacts in another country’s original language.
I took French for 3 years in high school (I was even on the Société Honoraire de Français/National Honors Society), but I want to refresh those French skills, along with learning Korean, Spanish, and Japanese! It’s pretty cool when you realize that you are progressing and can recognize or translate a phrase!
#3 Travel Alone
On the heels of learning a new language, I highly encourage solo traveling as a hobby to pick up to boost your confidence; I even wrote an article about the joys of traveling solo!
Since I wrote a whole article about it, I won’t go too in detail about the why, but there’s no other satisfied feeling than knowing that you’ve budgeted, planned, and explored a new place all by yourself! I can confidently say that knowing how to navigate a new country is an accomplishment.
#4 Cooking or Baking
Okay, this is probably the hobby that I am currently incorporating, because well…a girl needs to learn how to cook with the food I already have at home! Haha, with the costs of groceries and trying to stick to my budget and save, I need all the healthy recipes!
However, experimenting with new recipes and cooking techniques can help you develop new skills in the kitchen, and the joy of creating delicious dishes can boost your confidence and provide a sense of accomplishment.
I can attest to this because, with the help of YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and all the other food blogs, I have so many recipes saved…and as someone who was never confident with my kitchen skills, ya girl is cooking some yummy food! I’m not host-worthy yet, but that is my goal! I may even pitch in to bring a dish for this year’s Thanksgiving! 😄
#5 Take a Public Speaking, Acting, or Comedy Class
Joining a public speaking club, theater, or some other class can improve your communication skills and build your confidence in expressing your ideas and thoughts in front of others. I know it’s a bit scary at first, but it can be really fun!
I was on the Speech team in high school, and while it wasn’t the “coolest” extracurricular activity, it was actually a great place for me to build up my communication skills, network with other people from different schools, and learn how to talk/perform in front of an audience! By overcoming stage fright, you will become more confident in other areas of your life.
#6 Play a Musical Instrument
Learning to play a musical instrument can be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. As you practice and progress, you’ll build skills and develop a sense of accomplishment. Playing an instrument can also boost creativity and provide a positive outlet for self-expression, at least that’s what I’ve heard!
Something I wish I learned as a child is learning how to play a musical instrument. I mean, I started taking saxophone lessons (I wanted to be like Lisa Simpson lol), but unfortunately the musical program was cut from my school district’s budget.
Now that I am an adult, I do want to pick up learning an instrument one day soon. Which instrument exactly…I’m stuck between the harp and the bass guitar haha!
#7 Commit to Getting into the Best Shape
If we’ve learned anything from the past 3 years, it’s that time and health is of the essence. As time goes on, our bodies are getting older and just…stop functioning the same way they did when we were younger. For instance, gravity and metabolism…WHEW, they can definitely humble someone!
Much like my point about picking up dancing, try to pick a fitness-based hobby that you’ll actually like and find exciting. From pole fitness to rock climbing to power lifting and more, there are endless fun and rewarding ways to get fit and make yourself proud.
I don’t know about you, but I want to say to myself that I was able to get into the best shape of my life just one time haha!
Related: 5 Ways to Frugally Romanticize Your Life
I hope this article encouraged you to step out of your comfort zone and try some new things! We only have one life on the planet, so let’s make the most of our time here! 😀 What hobbies have you picked up? How have they impacted your self-confidence?
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-Lena
The CGS Team
