Importance of Hobbies as a Parent
Becoming a parent changes our lives in many ways. Hobbies we once enjoyed may take a backseat to all of the responsibilities of parenthood and daily life. It can take time to adjust to parenthood and its workload and as a result we can adopt new identities that don't always involve hobbies or interests outside of being a parent.
It is important for parents to explore hobbies because as mentioned, parenting is demanding, and constantly focusing on others can lead to stress, burnout, or a loss of personal identity. Hobbies give parents a break from responsibilities and help them recharge mentally and emotionally. In this article we will explore 6 reasons why it is important for parents to explore hobbies:
1. Encourages a sense of self
Hobbies help preserve those aspects of who we are, reminding us that we aren’t just a parent, but also an individual with their own interests, passions, identities and worth.
2. Encourages healthy routine and behavior
When children see their parents engaging in hobbies, they learn that self-care, balance, and personal growth are valuable. It shows kids that it's important to make time for things that bring joy.
3. Stress Relief
Hobbies like journaling, reading, gardening and working out can reduce stress and provide a healthy outlet for emotional regulation, which in turn helps parents be more patient, present, and effective in our parenting.
4. Promotes a strong sense of community and relationships
Whether it’s with a partner, friends, or a community group, hobbies can bring people together. Maintaining social connections outside the family unit strengthens emotional support networks and reduces feelings of isolation. This is especially important for mothers who are navigating their postpartum journey. Having a hobby that connects you to others who can share your experience is a really effective way to heal and ease into parenthood.
5. Can help reduce feelings of resentment
When parents neglect our own interests, we may begin to feel resentful towards ourselves, their partners and even their children. Having time to yourself can help you feel more fulfilled, which can prevent resentment from building up.
6. Increased Energy and Creativity
Parents who regularly pursue hobbies often return to parenting more refreshed, creative, and engaged.
As parents it is common to feel guilty for spending time away from our families and our children. Making space for joy, rest, and creativity isn’t selfish, it’s how parents recharge and become better caregivers. It is important to remember that when we as parents invest in ourselves, we’re not taking away from our families, we are contributing to them in a deeper, more sustainable and intentional way.
