Melissa Howard
Author
Like it or not, spending time at home is something we all have had to become accustomed to. And for many, it has actually been a blessing in disguise to get the chance to learn something different you might not otherwise have had the time to do. So, if you’ve ever had the inkling to try something new, now’s the time to do so! Wellness with Eszter presents some tips below.
Variety Is the Spice of Life
The advantage of the internet and online learning is that there are countless hobbies and skills to discover — all with the click of a button. And with so many to choose from, chances are you won’t spend too much time feeling bored! Pair this with the rise in popularity of private instruction and you’ll be busy learning in no time.
Creativity Rules
While the list of hobbies you’ll encounter online seems to be never-ending, there are a few that stand out time and time again. And as dissimilar as these favorite pastimes appear to be, they all have one thing in common: creativity in spades! Creative hobbies certainly seem to rule the online space because they speak to the inner creative genius that exists in everyone. What’s more, the possibilities and options are endless. You can showcase everything from oil paintings and sketches to music you’ve recorded in your bedroom. It all depends on your passion.
Hobbies Most Likely to Win the Popularity Contest
There are hobbies, and there are popular hobbies; favorite pastimes that stand the test of time and just seem to get better and more popular as the years pass by. This is especially true for art and dance classes, with dance being a firm favorite amongst couples looking to reconnect in these isolating times. Meanwhile, there are other hobbies that become seemingly trendy overnight, such as learning how to sew or, as Careerizma notes, even learning a new language.
The Age of the Internet
The brilliance of the digital age means you don’t have to have a dedicated tutor on standby to help you learn the ropes — ReachSelf.com points out that the internet can teach you how! In fact, it has never before been so easy to learn a new hobby or skill as it is today. So, if you’re a little stuck and lost for inspiration, there is help available in the form of online videos through YouTube, free webinars, and more. There are countless avenues to explore.
In fact, some people use the internet to earn a college degree, thanks to the availability of online universities. For example, if you regret never having earned your bachelor’s degree, you can enroll in courses designed with flexibility in mind. In addition to learning from the comfort of your home, multiple start times throughout the year mean you can begin when it suits your schedule. However, make sure the school you choose is trusted and accredited.
A Full-Time Hobby
Once you’ve got the learning part down pat, you may find that you love it so much that you want to make it your full-time day job. And that’s the brilliance of a hobby turned career really, anyone can reap the rewards of hard work, dedication, and passion for their craft.
You may find that you’re skilled in aspects of real estate. Maybe you’re the DIY type that enjoys home improvement projects, even to the point of refurbing fixer-uppers. Turning this interest into a full-time gig may involve investing in real estate, an activity that can reap wonderful financial rewards. Many people who get into real estate investments either flip houses or use the properties they acquire as rentals, which is another source of revenue.
If you’re more into creating artwork, jewelry, or pillows featuring cartoon characters, you can turn this passion into a side job by selling your work on sites like Etsy. This platform connects artists and creators with people around the world, meaning you could develop a strong fan following by people who live thousands of miles away.
What Will It Be?
The journey from hobbyist to entrepreneur can, however, be challenging if you are unsure of the type of business you’d like to start. LLCs are generally the more preferred option for solopreneurs or those looking to form a partnership with someone else when starting out with your venture. In actual fact, the growth of LLCs has risen dramatically over the years.
An LLC has many benefits that come with it, including limited tax liability, more flexibility, as well as certain other tax advantages. However, if you are moving states and transitioning jobs simultaneously, it is important to note that different states have different LLC requirements. And if you’re unsure of the process and want to go the less costly route, a formation service can help guide you in the right direction and lead you through the formation process.
Making Time Count
In summary, having plenty of time on your hands allows you to learn a new hobby or skill, opening your eyes to new possibilities and opportunities you never knew existed. It’s also a time to make the most of time spent with family and friends as we navigate a new era where time restraints no longer matter as much.