Learning a new skill is exciting, you set out with fire in your belly and a determination to succeed.
However over time this focus can soon be replaced by daily life and it soon becomes difficult to fit
your hobby around your busy lifestyle.

Choose a hobby you will enjoy

Firstly you must choose something you are really passionate about. You will have to give a lot of your
time and concentration to learn a new hobby, so if you have chosen something just because a friend
has, then it is likely a few months down the line you will have wasted your time and money.

Many people choose to learn the guitar because they think it will make them instantly look ‘cool’.
While it might have that appeal, it comes with hard work and practice- are you prepared to take that
on?

To succeed in your quest to learn a new skill you really require passion, patience and the will to
succeed, without this, your new hobby will become an arduous task and you will find as the months
pass, your determination and drive will dwindle.

Plan your time

Life is always there to get in the way of any plans you may have, there is always washing to put on,
cleaning to do, and a large DIY list to complete. Make sure you plan your time wisely and schedule
in set time for your hobby each week. No matter what it is you are learning it will most likely require
practice to really get the hang of it.

By pre planning three or four time slots per week dedicated just towards your hobby, not only will
you pick up and develop your skill quicker, but you will also gain valuable ‘you’ time, while feeling
that great sense of achievement. These time slots don’t necessarily have to last long, but regular
practice throughout the week leads to proven success.

What are the costs?

In some cases hobbies can become a huge expense. Equipment, books, classes, and materials soon
add up. Make sure you analyse what you will need before hand and if you have the budget to
maintain your hobby. Hobbies can really vary in price depending on what you are taking on, guitar
lessons, books, and a guitar and amp will be significantly less than horse riding lessons and all the
equipment. While you might have aspirations to become the next Jimi Hendrix or Frankie Dettori,
make sure your bank balance agrees.

Tuition

Tuition is a great way to keep you on track. Your tutor will be able to assess your progress and keep
you motivated if your progress begins to slide. If you check in with a tutor once a week, it forces you

to keep on top of it as a tutor isn’t likely to put up with poor excuses week to week as to why you
have failed to practice.

About the author: Kirsten is set up her own handmade jewellery business after she started making
jewellery in her spare time.

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