Hobbies don’t have to have to cost you an arm and a leg to enjoy. These seven prove that money can’t buy happiness — or that delightful flow state.
Gardening
Gardening can cost a bit to get going. But once you have everything in place, there’s nothing left to do but watch your garden grow! The backyard or even a small balcony can become a green paradise. It’s also potentially therapeutic, and if you decide to grow herbs or vegetables, it will save you money on groceries.
Crafting
Get creative with do-it-yourself projects. From upcycling old furniture to making gifs for friends and family, crafting is a fun and fulfilling way to express yourself for little or no cost. Use YouTube tutorials to teach yourself new ways to craft; you could even see how others are doing it with what they already have instead of throwing a bunch of random things into your cart at the local art supply store.
Hiking
Walking is free, nature is free — the only thing you’ll have to cough up is your time (and maybe some money for allergy pills for those high pollen days). Enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors to stay physically and mentally fit. Some hikes can take all day, so they’re an incredible way to pass the time and live a better life without spending a thing.
Cooking and Baking
These are two hobbies that basically save you money compared to most people. Buying ready-made food, going out to eat, or relying on take out is expensive and doesn’t involve your creativity. Cooking and baking are true hobbies that require you to build valuable skills. Both are often healthier and more economical ways to eat, which you were planning on doing anyway, right?
Writing or Journaling
The power of the written word: you’re experiencing it right now! Writing stories or just doing a thought download about your day can keep your head clear and leave you feeling more fulfilled. Sure, you could splurge on a fancy pen and journal if you’d like. But past that, there’s no other costs, and those are completely optional anyway.
Reading
When was the last time you stopped by your local library? If it’s been a while since you’ve gotten lost in a good book, it’s an incredibly low-cost hobby that can expand your mind and be a great way to unwind. You can also join a club to share your love of books with others. And with so many free blogs and stories published online every single day, there’s no shortage of free material for you to consume.
Photography
Is your camera roll looking a little glum? Virtually everyone has access to a high-quality camera on their smartphone now — why not leverage it to create some art? You can practice composition, lighting, and editing without spending any money. Sure, you could invest in some pretty pricey equipment down the line, but the barrier to entry is virtually nonexistent and tons of fun!
