There’s something profoundly beautiful about discovering new facets of oneself, especially when those facets were once believed to be entirely out of reach. My journey through various hobbies in the post-pandemic world has not just expanded my repertoire of activities but has significantly altered my lifestyle and perception of self.
Before this exploratory phase, I was the person who would fall asleep seven pages into a book, whose attempt at gardening resulted in the improbable death of an aloe vera plant—known for its hardiness even in the harshest conditions. The very idea of writing seemed alien to me until I was 33, and physical activities? They were out of the question for someone who self-identified as not being “physically inclined.”
However, life has a funny way of challenging our self-imposed limits. In the wake of the global slowdown, I found myself delving into the world of audiobooks and podcasts, which opened new doors to learning and experiencing life through the stories and insights of others. The magic of audiobooks lies in their ability to engage the mind while allowing the body to be active or relaxed, depending on the moment’s need. Podcasts, with their varied themes and depths, became a source of inspiration and contemplation.
Cooking entered my life as more than just a necessity; it became a creative outlet and a way to connect with different cultures and histories. Each recipe told a story, every meal a celebration of newfound skills and flavors.
Then came gardening, a venture that initially met with repeated failures. Yet, with persistence, what was once a barren plot transformed into a thriving garden boasting over a thousand plants. This green sanctuary became not just a testament to growth but a daily reminder of resilience and renewal.
Blogging started as an experiment in self-expression and quickly grew into a cherished practice. It became a space to share insights, connect with others, and articulate the reflections that came with my expanding horizons.
Perhaps most surprising was my venture into hiking and trekking. From a self-professed non-sporty individual to someone who has completed multiple challenging treks alone, this transition was nothing short of remarkable. Each trail brought with it lessons in endurance and the discovery of personal reservoirs of strength I had previously denied.
What connects all these diverse activities is not just the joy they bring or the skills they require but the profound impact they’ve had on how I view life and its possibilities. Each hobby challenged what I believed about myself, pushing me beyond the borders of my previous existence. They taught me that limits are often just illusions, and beyond them lie experiences that add depth and color to life.
As I reflect on this journey, I realize that embracing these once-daunting hobbies has led to a richer, more fulfilling life. They were not just pastimes but pathways that guided me to a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me. Through books, trails, gardens, and words, I have woven a new tapestry of life, marked by an eagerness to learn and an openness to change.
This transformation highlights a universal truth: we are all capable of more than we imagine. The key is to step beyond our doubts and to keep exploring, learning, and growing. In doing so, we not only enrich our lives but also discover the many versions of ourselves that exist just beyond the limits we once took for granted.
Parm says
Absolutely awesome!