Couple Money

Can Your Hobbies Help You Have a Rich Life?

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Not a good start with bicycling last week.

When I received the box, I noticed it was a bit banged up. Opening it up I noticed some slight damaged with the basket, but I hoped I could fix that up. I then pulled out the pieces to put it together.

After grabbing socket and wrench sets, I was able to build it to the point where I realized I was missing a few vital bolts and screws. Disheartened, I submitted a return to Amazon.

They said they would send another bicycle and I would have to get the defective bike ready for pick-up this morning.

While assembling  the bicycle (and disassembling when I had to get it packed for the return) I got a bit energized from engaging in a hobby I hadn't done in awhile.

Productive Hobbies

All of us have hobbies. As Wikipedia defines them:

A hobby is a regular activity or interest that is undertaken for pleasure, typically done during one's leisure time…..Engaging in a hobby can lead to acquiring substantial skill, knowledge and experience.

For some playing video games or sports, doing word puzzles, or creating art or some crafts.

My hobbies have changed as I've grown older (with the exception of reading – I've always loved grabbing a good book).

My current hobbies have been more technically based – either messing around with the computer, tinkering with site design or playing a strategy based video game.

It allows me to relax after a long day. With a toddler ( time has flown!) now, I'm limited a bit on my time spent on hobbies.

I've also realized that I'd like to get back into hobbies that are more productive, meaning I can relax and do something that help the family.

Money Saving and Making Hobbies

Being a personal finance blog for couples, I would be remiss if I didn't mention a few possible hobbies that can help you improve your finances.

Some hobbies that provide financial value day to day include:

Is this a complete? By no means, but I think these are hobbies that most people can start out with and build from there.

Jacob from Early Retirement Extreme has a much bigger list if you need some more ideas.

Taking your Hobby Up a Notch

For those who already are engaging in a hobby and have made a bit of money with it, you may want to check out Chris Guillbeau's book The $100 Start-Up.

Borrow or buy, it's a really good resource for those looking to make the leap from employee to entrepreneur.

I've been a fan of Chris for years and I've enjoyed his guides on building a small business including his Empire Building Kit.

Of course there's no rule that you need to turn a hobby into a business, but it's nice to know you have that option.

Thoughts on Productive Hobbies

What hobbies to you enjoy that also saves or makes you a bit of money? Where did you pick up that skill? What hobby do you wish to pick up?

Photo Credit: Chris Guillbeau

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