This year I’ll stop smoking. This year I’ll go to the gym. This year I’ll spend less money. We all know the resolutions people make when the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve. But did you know that only about 6 in every 100 people stick to their resolutions? This year, why not make a resolution you’ll actually want to keep? Here are 15 hobbies to try in 2025.
Paint by Numbers
For everyone who would love to take up art but is always the last one picked at Pictionary, this is a hobby for you. Paint by numbers used to be a kid’s activity that came with watercolors that never dried and a paintbrush that never got fully clean. These days, the DIY kits they have are a far cry from the activity sets of the past. The pictures come out so good that you may even hang them on the fridge when you’re done.
Metal Detecting
If you think that metal detecting is just walking around on the beach and finding old bottle caps, consider this: metal detector hobbyists have found things like old shipwrecked coins, large sapphire rings, and Bronze Age artifacts, just to name a few. Some of these finds were worth over a million dollars. So get out there and give it a shot, and if nothing else, it’s a great way to get some fresh air and exercise.
Genealogy
It’s amazing how much you can find out about your heritage these days. A simple swab of your cheek can unlock decades, even centuries, of family history. Take some time to create a family tree or put together a scrapbook about your family. There are even companies that will plan vacations for you centered around the places your ancestors were from.
Locksport
This hobby is exactly what it sounds like—picking locks for sport. Known as “lock enthusiasts,” participants of this pastime challenge themselves with contests and timed events. There are even team relay races and other competitions. And if nothing else, you won’t need to call a locksmith the next time your kid locks themself in the bathroom.
Photography
If there’s one thing that you can do any time of day, every day of the year, it’s photography. Whether developing your people skills with portrait photography or tapping into your creative side with abstract photography, there’s bound to be something for everyone.
Brew Your Own Beer
There’s something about brewing your own beer that makes it taste so much better. You can buy a starter kit and go at it on your own, or you can visit a brew shop and have them help you pick out what you need. Either way, your friends are sure to be happy as taste testers.
Bonsai
Bonsai is the Japanese art of growing and shaping miniature trees. But just because they are miniature doesn’t mean there’s not a whole lot that goes into taking care of them. It’s a centuries-old art that requires special care, but the result is worth it. Plus, you can keep it right in your kitchen.
Candle Making
Here’s another hobby that you can start easily with a DIY kit. You can stick to one scent or combine several to create the perfect fragrance. Not to mention the money that you’ll save on store-bought candles, which can get expensive. There are plenty of benefits to making your own candles, not to mention it’s just plain fun.
Jump Rope
If the thought of jump roping brings back memories of fighting with your friends at recess over whose turn it is in the middle, you’ll be happy to know that the activity has evolved. Now there are fitness classes and dance routines centered around jumping rope. If you’re looking for some good exercise and a flashback to your youth, this is the hobby to pick up.
Geocaching
Do you like hiking, treasure hunting, and the outdoors? Then geocaching is right up your alley. It’s a real-world scavenger hunt where you use a GPS to find containers, known as geocaches. They usually have a book and pencil inside, and you sign your name and return it for the next person. A large number of cities and parks participate in the activity, and you can usually find various trails and maps online.
Learn a New Language
This one might not be as unique, but it’s a valuable skill to have if you want to be able to say more than “where’s the bathroom” next time you’re on vacation. These days, there are dozens of courses you can take, either online or in person, to get you started. There are even free apps that you can download to start learning your choice of languages. And once you get the hang of it, it’s a great excuse for a vacation.
Scrapbooking
How many times have you remembered an important moment in your life and wished you had something to remind you of it? Scrapbooking can allow you to do just that. Whether you’re saving photos or mementos, you’ll always be able to look back at the memories when you’re feeling nostalgic.
Stand-Up Comedy
Is everyone always telling you how funny you are? Or maybe you’re looking to branch out a little and get out of your comfort zone. Either way, stand-up comedy is the answer. If you have great comedic timing and are not afraid to put yourself out there, look into some open mic nights at your local bars.
Join a Book Club
Are you constantly looking for the next book to read? Do you finish a book and then think about it for days? Then a book club is perfect for you. You’ll get to read a hot new book each time and then discuss it over a glass of wine. If you can’t find one near you, start one of your own!
Origami
Origami is the Japanese art of paper folding. It may sound simple, but you’d be surprised at the skill it takes. This isn’t the kind of paper folding you did in high school to pass notes. This is an art. You can make anything from a crane to a life-size lizard. And the best part is, you can do it from your couch. If you are looking for a low-energy hobby that gives you big results, try your hand at origami.
