When was the last time any of us actually uttered the phrase “I’m bored”? For some, it may have been fairly recently. Many of us probably don’t remember the last time we spoke these words.
Both as young adults and specifically as Pepperdine students, it can be difficult to imagine having nothing to do. There is always something else on the to-do list, whether it’s a paper to write, an internship to apply for or a friend’s birthday present to get. It is difficult to find any time off in the midst of so many commitments and obligations.
This is especially true at Pepperdine, where juggling a full course load, an on-campus job and a sport is normal. Clubs, volunteer programs and friends are also vying for our time. With so many competing interests, taking time to relax and do things we enjoy can seem like a far-off dream. Not to mention, having just made it through midterm season, there is hardly a student on campus who isn’t growing weary of full schedules and endless to-do lists.
In spite of all the chaos and busyness, it is important to find an activity with which to recharge. As much as students comment that they don’t have time for hobbies, it is worth making time for. We, both as students and as a society, prize involvement, and it can often seem like we are expected to overachieve.
This workaholic culture can too often overshadow the need for balance in life. The exhaustion can move beyond a simple need for sleep and turn into a mental and emotional exhaustion.
In such a busy time of life, how are we supposed to avoid that exhaustion? Perhaps the best way to do it is to set aside time for a hobby. Choose something you’re passionate about, whether it’s drawing or reading, Netflix or playing a sport. Not all of us can commit to these things every day, but purposefully allowing ourselves some respite through hobbies can be vital.
For some, it’s a way to release stress. For others it’s a way to relax. So whatever you choose to do, take some time to rest. Take some time to recharge. Find something you love, and make it a priority.
There are so many hobbies to choose from, but whatever pastime you choose needn’t be some grand adventure. Pepperdine offers various activities through the Board, as well as more regular events such as fitness classes. But it can be even simpler than that.
Maybe it means deciding to take Friday night off and heading down to Payson to rent a movie or three. It’s Halloween season — maybe that means bringing out the kid in you and carving pumpkins or going trick-or-treating. Plan a pre-Thanksgiving celebration with friends. Take a little time before bed to actually crack open that book that has been sitting on your shelf forever.
We all have different passions and interests, but we can each find a hobby that suits us. Accept the challenge. In spite of busy schedules, make time to do something you love. Recharge. It’ll be more than worth it.
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As published in the Oct. 31 issue of the Pepperdine Graphic.
