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The word “hobby” is very common and it seems to represent a very simple idea, but what is a hobby? One dictionary definition is “an activity or interest pursued for pleasure or relaxation and not as a main occupation.” The idea that a hobby is “for pleasure” is a common defining feature. Another dictionary says it is “an activity done regularly in one's leisure time for pleasure.” By this definition, taking a nap or watching TV could be considered hobbies, but I personally don’t consider these activities to be hobbies. Do you?
What about productive hobbies that improve your knowledge or skills? Most people agree that reading is a hobby, but what if you work in finance and you enjoy reading books and articles about money, markets, and economics in your free time? Is reading your “hobby” in that case? Where is the line between a hobby and professional development? It’s difficult to say! And what if your hobby becomes a “side hustle” and you start making money from it? Is it still a hobby then?
One of my hobbies is building LEGO models. Of course I buy and build LEGO sets for fun, but I also make money by selling LEGO, I design my own models and order specific pieces to build them, I attend events in-person and exchange information in an online community, and I keep up-to-date on LEGO news by reading articles and watching videos.
What’s your hobby? What makes it a hobby? Let me know in the comments or in a lesson! This week, I’ll be asking lots of people about their hobbies to find my own definition of this word!
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