Studying as a hobby

Many people see studying as a necessary part of education or career progression. But studying as a hobby can be equally, if not more, rewarding.
According to the Oxford dictionary, a hobby is "an activity done regularly in one's leisure time for pleasure". Humans have engaged in hobbies since time began; doing things to keep busy during long days. As times have changed and people's lives have become busier with work, family and looking after a home, the need for hobbies has perhaps become even more important. Dedicating time to personal enjoyment can reduce stress and provide a much needed escape from everyday life.
When studying is done for pleasure, rather than as a necessity, it becomes a hobby. That's not to say that educational or work based study isn't enjoyable - indeed it should be in order to achieve success. But studying as a hobby involves choosing a subject matter purely for enjoyment. There may be no need or desire for achievement, like a final exam, qualification or credential. Just learning more about the subject is enough.
Let's look at 5 great reasons for considering studying as a hobby.

Expanding your horizons

The world is so full of things that we, as individuals, may not know anything about. How wonderful then to choose a subject completely new to us, and immerse ourselves in all there is to know? Finding out more about topics we don't understand can enrich our perspective of our own lives.
Course recommendations:

• World War 1 and 2
• Researching local history

Learning a new skill

It's never too late to turn your hand to a skill you've always fancied trying but never had the time or opportunity. The beauty of studying a new skill as a hobby is that you can take your time and learn at your own pace. Our courses come with full tutor support, so you'll have a knowledgeable expert on hand to help out of needed.
Course recommendations:

• Chess 
• Chicken keeping

Overcoming past lack of success

You may not need specific qualifications to succeed in your career but perhaps, on a personal level, you're secretly annoyed that Maths isn't your strong point? It's never too late to learn the basics or brush up on those skills.
Course recommendations:

• Basic maths

Tapping in to your creative side

Every day life can be very black and white, with repetitive demands that make us feel almost robotic. How about creating a haven of escapism in which you can let your mind run away with you?
Course recommendations:

• Creative writing 
• Fiction writing
• Jewellery making

Earn an extra income

Most of us would say a big yes to earning some extra cash. Even better if we could earn that cash as a result of something we love. If family and friends know you have a hobby you love, they may be happy to pay for your knowledge and expertise. Who knows, it could even become your new career. As the saying goes "find a job you love, and you'll never work a day in your life."
Course recommendations:

• Cake making
• Floristry with practical training
• Interior design
• Garden design

Has this inspired you to think of studying as a hobby? Why not browse the full list of over 500 courses on our website and find something that excites you? Our student adviser team are available to answer any queries you might have - give them a call on 03300 563100.