16 Uplifting Hobbies That Will Quickly Enhance Your Mood

      March 18, 2025

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      At this stage in my life, if I'm investing time, energy, or money into something, I want it to at least bring me joy. Life is stressful enough, so when I'm faced with the classic dilemma of "I’m bored," I'm searching for hobbies that uplift me above all else. Sure, watching an hour-long episode of White Lotus helps me pass the time and provides instant gratification, but it doesn't really qualify as a hobby in the traditional sense. What I truly need is an activity that boosts my endorphins and allows me to disconnect without feeling overly challenging or burdensome.

      Whether you're trying to find a revitalizing pastime or seeking an alternative to your nightly social media scrolling, I have some suggestions for you. These enjoyable hobbies will leave you feeling significantly better:

      1. Bake from Scratch

      I love baking because the process is fun, and you get to savor a delicious treat at the end. It feels like a reward for taking time to create instead of just scrolling through your phone. Open a cookbook or check out Pinterest to find a recipe that catches your eye. Even if your first attempt isn’t perfect, it’s always enjoyable to get your hands dirty and try making something from scratch. And if you end up with a mountain of baked goods, you can always share them with friends or neighbors.

      2. Start a Scrapbook

      In an age where we document our lives digitally, the art of scrapbooking has somewhat faded. However, there’s something special about flipping through a physical collection of memories rather than scrolling. Print out photos, gather scrapbooking materials, and let your creativity flow on the pages. If, like me, you have a box of sentimental items that might be considered clutter, scrapbooking is a wonderful way to showcase them.

      3. Assemble Puzzles

      Puzzles are an underrated source of entertainment in my opinion. They provide enough of a mental challenge to keep your brain engaged without requiring deep concentration. I enjoy listening to a podcast while sitting at my kitchen table for hours, piecing things together. Start with a simple 500-piece puzzle and as you get better, you can move on to more challenging 2,000-piece ones.

      4. Get Creative with Coloring Books

      As someone with limited artistic skills, I've always wanted to try hobbies like painting or sketching, but I lack the natural talent for it. Adult coloring books have become my new outlet for creativity without needing any real skill. There’s something gratifying about staying within the lines, and there are countless coloring books available. Personally, I have a Real Housewives of New York coloring book, and I highly recommend it.

      5. Enjoy Card or Board Games

      For this hobby, you’ll need to gather some friends, but once you do, it’s incredibly enjoyable. It’s an easy, low-pressure way to hang out with friends instead of resorting to a movie night or meeting for drinks. These games can be as simple or complex as you prefer, but some of my favorites as a casual player include Codenames, Five Crowns, and Skyjo.

      6. Create and Maintain a TBR List

      With the sheer volume of book recommendations we encounter daily, it can be overwhelming. From recommendations from friends and coworkers to suggestions from platforms like BookTok and Instagram, it’s nearly impossible to remember every book you might want to read—unless you note it down on a TBR (To Be Read) list. A TBR list helps you track books you’re interested in while also helping you set reading goals and review the books after finishing them. You can use apps like GoodReads or keep a traditional journal—there's something for everyone.

      7. Join a Sports Team

      If you miss the routine and camaraderie of playing sports from your youth, consider joining a recreational sports league. It’s a low-commitment way to get exercise while meeting new people. If you’re apprehensive, sign up with a friend, and soon you'll be excited for your next practice.

      8. Go Hiking in Nature

      While daily neighborhood walks are great for mental and physical well-being, consider taking it further by exploring nature. You don’t need to live near grand mountains or forests to hike—every state has nature reserves, state parks, and local trails for exploration. Simply search for “hiking trail near me” to discover new nature escapes.

      9. Practice Intention or Manifestation Journaling

      At The Everygirl, we often discuss manifestation and journaling because they serve as hobbies and forms of self-care and mindfulness. Journaling can be therapeutic, allowing you to express your thoughts on paper. Additionally, it can aid in practicing gratitude, setting intentions, and manifesting your ideal life.

      10. Cultivate Your