Hobby Hopping

I always thought I liked learning, but it wasn’t until after I finished school that I realized I loved it. When my compulsory education ended, I was granted the time and freedom to choose what I actually wanted to learn. And as it turns out, I want to learn a bit about everything. If I were to try and identify my greatest passions in life right now, I would say I have three: traveling, connecting with people, and my hobbies.

When other people talk about their hobbies, they are often referencing the activities they like to do. Rather when I talk about my hobbies, I am referring to every activity under the sun, even if I have not done it yet. It may be more accurate to say that my hobby is trying new hobbies. My friend recently, and I think accurately, compared me to a girl scout. I proudly collect hobbies and wear my sash of badges for all to see.

For as long as I can remember, I have identified with the adage, “A jack of all trades is a master of none.” I have come to love this aspect of my personality, however I haven’t always seen it in such a positive light. At its worst, this trait can look like indecision, flakiness, and an inability to follow through. I should mention I also have raging ADHD.

In the context of work, here’s an example of how my desire to do everything can be a hindrance. Back in high school and college, I bounced around part-time jobs because I always thought I would like something else more than whatever I was already doing. The grass was always greener. I was a barista, but I really like dogs! Then I was a dog walker, but I really like books! So then I got a job at a bookstore and the pattern continued. It wasn’t that I hated any of those jobs, I just liked too many things to commit to any one for long. By the time I was 21 I had had 11 jobs and was no closer to figuring out what I truly liked or wanted to do. I was always waiting for something to stick as if it would all finally click into place and I could stop my search. Spoiler, this never happened. It turned out I just needed a job that allowed me the flexibility to pursue my passions. I work remotely and while I don’t feel overly zealous about the work I do, I love my job because it doesn’t feel like I have to sacrifice any other part of myself to do it. Maybe I will need more out of my career down the line, but right now this works for me.

This opportunity indecisiveness both positively and negatively affects all facets of my life, but I am learning to embrace it. I am constantly searching and excited for the next hobby. When I am trying something new, it is an opportunity to connect with people and learn more about their corner of the world. Then I get to bring my experiences and share them with my loved ones. I feel like it brings me closer to everyone around me, including myself.

In my pursuit of everything, I have taken ceramics courses, figure-sketching classes, and Spanish lessons. I have tried new sports and found out that I was terrible at them (my broken foot from skateboarding can attest). I have taken up photography, embroidery, tarot card reading, and creative writing. I have willingly learned about topics I previously thought uninteresting, acquired skills I never knew I needed, and gained invaluable friendships through it all. I have even started a blog!