Stories to fuel your mind

How to Start a Hobby if You Don’t Know Where to Begin

Painting, crosswording, hiking, birding: Our reading list breaks down why it’s worth the effort to discover what brings you joy.

Pocket Collections

Corrie Evanoff

Read when you’ve got time to spare.

Image by Luciano Lozano/Getty Images

On the Pleasures of Hand-Writing Letters You’ll Never Send

Hand-writing letters you’ll never send takes the heat off feelings and lets you look back on drafts of a previous self. .

Have You Fallen for the Myth of ‘I Can’t Draw’? Do It Anyway—and Reap the Rewards

The hurdles people face when it comes to learning to draw and how they can be overcome.

How to Learn a Language (and Stick at It)

Forget about fluency and how languages are taught at school: as an adult learner you can take a whole new approach.

Five Skills to Learn in Your Spare Time, and How to Master Them

Flex that gray matter.

The Forgotten Hobby of Flower Pressing Is Back—Here’s How to Master It

Once beloved of Victorian ladies, the art is on the rise again. We explore its (very mindful) appeal and reveal how to join the trend.

10 Beginner Supplies (Under $35) to Get if You Want to Start Painting as a Hobby

Getting started is probably easier than you think.

BONUS READ: The Best Drawing Tablets for Beginners via Wirecutter.

How to Fall Back in Love With Reading

Even when your brain feels like mush.

A Field Guide for Fledgling Birders

Birding doesn’t require a pair of binoculars and a trip to a nature preserve. If you’ve ever paused to appreciate a bird, you’re already well on your way. Here’s how to get into birding.

BONUS READ: Great Reads for Bird Nerds via Pocket Collections.

How To Be More Creative

Twenty-one great articles and resources about the art and science of cultivating creativity.

5 Tech Tricks for Learning a Musical Instrument

Let the music flow through you.

11 Foolproof Ways To Find A New Hobby

Actually helpful tips to help fill idle hours.

How to Plan a Day Hike

If you're just getting started on the trails, don't be overwhelmed. This 101 guide breaks down where to go, what to wear, and everything you need to know to stay safe and have fun out there.

How to Solve The New York Times Crossword

Solving crossword puzzles is like mental yoga—both challenging and relaxing at the same time.

How To Start Cooking

Get comfortable in the kitchen with beginner-friendly tips and techniques.

A Beginner’s Guide to Gardening

Before you buy those seeds or pull out the shovel, read up on the essential plans and skills you’ll need for your first (or first successful) garden.

Lego Isn’t Just for Kids. Here’s How to Become an Adult Lego Master.

Adult Fans of Lego, or AFOLs, are a growing number of enthusiasts who say that playing with Lego isn’t just for kids.

A Beginner’s Guide to Running

Want to start a running habit but have no idea where to start? Here is everything you need to know to start running and actually enjoy it.

How to Start Camping: A Beginner’s Guide

Everything you need to know to go on your first camping trip, including where to go, what to pack, and how to make the perfect S’more.

How to Find New Music You’ll Actually Like

The internet wants very badly for you to hear new music.

From Crip to Crochet Artist: How an Unlikely Hobby Changed My Life in Prison

I used to hide this cathartic craft because Crips don’t crochet. But making items that fellow prisoners can give to their loved ones has allowed me to create a peaceful new identity.

Find Inspiration in These Delightfully Offbeat Obsessions

Not all hobbies are created equal: Some people spend years chasing mythical beasts, while others track down strangers’ graves or collect rare Cheetos and old beer cans. Dive in for a delightful exploration of some surprisingly fulfilling preoccupations.

Don’t Have 10,000 Hours to Learn Something New? That’s Fine — All You Need Is 20 Hours [WATCH]

Writer Josh Kaufman shares his own tried-and-tested technique to learn a new skill by putting in just 45 minutes a day for a month.

Do You Even Need a Hobby?

An essential reading list for breaking down the merits of introducing structured leisure into your life. Plus, how to find a pastime if you’re lacking inspiration.

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