4 Things To Remember When You’ve Lost Interest in Old Hobbies

Dear Selfless Esteem,
How can someone who is constantly on to new hobbies find peace in the mourning of old hobbies? For example, I used to love to paint but am sometimes saddened that I don’t get as jazzed about doing it as I used to.
Signed,
Flavor of the Month

Dear Flavor of the Month,

You’ve lost interest in old hobbies but you’re not alone; I think everyone can name an activity they don’t enjoy anymore. Mine would be eating sweets. As a child, how I thrilled I was to receive a glazed donut or a cupcake with a mountain of frosting! Now, I’d rather pass.

But before we begin addressing your question, consult with your physician to check for anhedonia and any other concerns. Then, if your loss of interest in old hobbies isn’t related to a physical or mental health issue, read on for 4 things to remember when you’re feeling wistful about formerly pleasurable hobbies. 🧁

1. The Knowledge You’ve Gained

Steve Jobs describes in his 2005 Stanford Commencement Speech how the calligraphy he learned in a college class was interesting but seemingly useless until years later when it influenced the development of computer fonts. Your past hobby may unexpectedly resurface and flourish in a different way, e.g., visiting art galleries or teaching others how to paint or study art. Consider what you’ve learned from your past hobbies that can be applicable now.

2. The Needs That Were Met

As mentioned, my sweet tooth has decreased since I was a child; however, I’m able to enjoy other kinds of foods with just as much pleasure. Do you have a current hobby that meets the same needs, which painting did for you? If not, what can you do to compensate?

Generally, I recommend exercise to increase endorphins and release dopamine. (Consult a physician first.) To make this pastime fun, look up leagues, lessons, trainers, camps and clinics near you on Adults Play Sports.

Another suggestion is playing games with children, which can bring out the silly, light-hearted kid in you. See “30 Fun Free Summer Printable Activities for Kids” by Pica’s Printables for ideas.

At the same time, it may be beneficial to express your sadness to a competent therapist. (See the posts, “Why You Need To Get a Therapist ASAP” and “What Is Wise Counsel and Good Therapy?” for details.)

3. The Areas of Growth

Perhaps you can make your old hobby more interesting. An example would be monetizing it. See “16 Profitable Hobby Ideas That Can Make Serious Money” by graceandmomentum.com. Or, you could use your artistic talent in a different way. For example, see Rose Pages’ YouTube channel for demonstrations of creating unique, beautiful journal pages.

4. The Purpose of Your Hobby

Olympic gold medalist Eric Liddell stated, “I believe God made me for a purpose, but He also made me fast! And when I run I feel His pleasure.” God created you with special talents and interests (Psalm 139:13-16 NIV; James 1:17) for His pleasure. (Ephesians 1:5). Thus, when you’ve lost interest in old hobbies, bring your concern to your Creator (1 Peter 5:7) and ask Him for direction (James 1:5). (See “How To Pray in 5 Simple Steps.”)

In conclusion, our hobbies are more about Him than us; they’re an act of worship as we honor Him for His amazing love. (For more details about God’s unconditional love, see the posts, “The Real Truth About God” and “Why Selfless Esteem Is Better Than Self-Esteem.”) “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31)🌄

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New King James Version®. Copyright © 1984 by Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, TN. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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