I’m a doctor based in the UK, and in this article, I’ll share how four hobbies changed my life trajectory in interesting ways. For each hobby, I’ll explain how it started, how it’s going, and the lessons learned.
1. Coding and Web Design
How It Started: Coding and web design began for me at the age of 11. My fascination with coding started in the school’s basement computer room, where a senior student demonstrated coding by viewing the source code of a webpage. My friends and I were also hooked on text-based role-playing games, which fueled my interest in creating something similar.
How It’s Going: To this day, I still dabble in coding and recently redesigned my personal website. Learning to code has been instrumental in generating numerous business ideas and executing them.
Lessons Learned:
- Coding unlocks creativity and helps you see business opportunities everywhere.
- Proficiency in coding allows you to implement ideas quickly.
- Coding skills provide job security independent of other career paths.
2. Music
How It Started: My music journey began with a desire to diversify my identity beyond academics. Inspired by a fellow medical student who performed beautifully on stage, I decided to learn the guitar and later the piano.
How It’s Going: Music remains one of my favorite hobbies. I continue to improve my skills and dream of busking on the London underground.
Lessons Learned:
- Music enhances creativity and provides a fulfilling way to express oneself.
- Continuous learning and practice are key to improving musical skills.
- Music can be a powerful tool for connecting with others.
Additional Insights:
- Learning music solidified the foundation that one can learn almost anything from the internet.
- Playing by ear once seemed impossible but can be learned through understanding the underlying patterns and formulas.
3. Close-Up Magic
How It Started: Close-up magic began as a way to overcome an inferiority complex during secondary school. Inspired by a performance on Penn and Teller’s “Fool Us,” I decided to learn sleight of hand with cards.
How It’s Going: Today, I perform magic at events and parties and am preparing for an audition at the prestigious Magic Circle.
Lessons Learned:
- Magic is a real exercise in embracing discomfort and seeking discomfort.
- Performing magic helps overcome social anxieties and builds confidence.
- The journey of learning magic teaches resilience and adaptability.
4. Continued Learning and Growth
How It Started: The journey of continued learning began when I realized the immense potential of self-education through the internet. Not relying on textbooks, I learned various skills and hobbies by exploring online resources.
How It’s Going: Today, I constantly seek new knowledge and skills, embracing the idea that learning is a lifelong process. This approach has opened up numerous opportunities and personal growth.
Lessons Learned:
- The internet is a powerful tool for self-education and skill development.
- Breaking down complex skills into manageable parts makes them more accessible.
- Embracing the mindset of continuous learning leads to personal and professional growth.
Conclusion
These hobbies have not only enriched my life but also provided valuable lessons that extend beyond the activities themselves. Whether it’s coding, music, magic, or continuous learning, exploring new interests can lead to personal growth and unexpected opportunities.
FAQs
Q1: How can I start learning to code?
A1: There are many online resources available. A recommended platform is Brilliant, which offers engaging and interactive courses in Python and other programming languages.
Q2: What are the benefits of learning music?
A2: Learning music enhances creativity, provides a means of self-expression, and helps build connections with others.
Q3: How can hobbies impact my career?
A3: Hobbies can unlock creativity, provide new skills, and open up opportunities for side projects or new career paths.
Q4: Can I turn my hobby into a career?
A4: Yes, with dedication and continuous learning, many hobbies can be transformed into fulfilling careers.
Q5: How do I find a new hobby to start?
A5: Explore different activities, reflect on your interests, and try out various hobbies to see what resonates with you.