How to Maintain a Hobby
(Or accept when we lose interest in one)
Does this sound familiar?
“Wow! Drone racing looks so cool!” 🛩
“Look at these awesome videos from the Drone Racing League on Pinterest and Instagram! I can do that!”
“This video says I can build one for $100, but suggests better parts….. How much could those be?”
::Credit Card Melts::
“This is interesting and all, but it’s going to take more time and equipment then I thought to get airborne”
2 weeks later…..
“Hey Google, how do I place an ad to sell drone stuff on Facebook marketplace?”
“OoooOOOooo! Someone is selling a first generation NA Mazda Miata in my favorite color, British Racing Green! Just needs a little body work, how hard could it be?
The cycle repeats
We’ve all been there, just insert your interests into the cycle.
Hobbies and your Brain
At its core, ADHD involves imbalances in certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, which play a crucial role in regulating attention, motivation, and emotional responses. Dopamine is often associated with feelings of pleasure and reward, which can be triggered by novel experiences and the anticipation of success. This is why individuals with ADHD might be drawn to new hobbies, as they provide a sense of excitement and novelty that stimulates dopamine production. However, maintaining interest in a hobby over the long term can be challenging due to the nature of ADHD, which may lead to a cycle of picking up and losing interest in various activities.
Finding and maintaining your hobby(s):
Choose hobbies that align with your interests and strengths: You're more likely to stick with a hobby if you genuinely enjoy it and feel confident in your abilities.
Set realistic goals and break them into smaller tasks: Having achievable goals can help maintain motivation. Divide larger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Create a schedule for your hobby time and set reminders: Consistency is key! Dedicate a specific time for your hobby and set reminders to stay on track.
Find an accountability partner or join a group related to your hobby: Having someone to share your hobby with can keep you motivated and offer encouragement when your interest starts to wane.
Celebrate small victories and progress: Recognizing and celebrating your achievements, no matter how small, can boost your self-confidence and motivation to keep going.
Even for neurotypical people, most hobbies still come to an end. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
It’s okay to cycle through multiple hobbies, depending what brings you the most enjoyment at the time!
Recognize that it's normal to lose interest: It's perfectly natural to outgrow hobbies or develop new interests. Don't beat yourself up for not sticking with a hobby long-term.
Be kind to yourself and don't feel guilty: Remember that you're not obligated to continue a hobby that no longer brings you joy. Give yourself permission to let go without feeling guilty.
Focus on the positive aspects of trying new things: Celebrate the skills you've learned, the experiences you've had, and the self-discovery that comes with exploring different hobbies.
Reflect on what you learned and how it might apply to future hobbies: Take some time to consider the lessons you've learned and how they can help you grow in other areas of your life or inform your choice of future hobbies.
Consider repurposing or donating hobby-related items: If you've accumulated supplies or equipment for your old hobby, think about ways to give them a new life, such as donating them to a local organization or selling them to someone with a budding interest in that hobby.
Get out there and have some fun!
Remember, it's essential to be kind to yourself and acknowledge that your interests may change over time. Embrace the excitement of discovering new hobbies, and don't be afraid to let go of those that no longer serve you. By implementing these tips, you'll be better equipped to maintain your hobbies and accept when it's time to move on. The key is to find joy, fulfillment, and personal growth in the process. Happy hobby-hunting!
Contributors: Dan, Nik, Kathaniel