As a dad, it’s easy to feel like your entire world revolves around your kids, your partner, and your responsibilities. Between work, school drop-offs, extracurricular activities, and the never-ending to-do lists, who has time for hobbies? At least, that’s what I used to think. For years, I put hobbies on the back burner, telling myself I’d get back to them “someday.” But as time went on, I realized that pushing my passions aside wasn’t doing me—or my family—any favors.
Let me tell you why making time for a hobby has been one of the best decisions I’ve made as a dad. And no, it’s not selfish. In fact, it’s something every dad should embrace.
Hobbies Keep You Sane
Parenting is amazing, but let’s be real—it’s also exhausting. There are days when the chaos feels overwhelming, and I used to find myself burning out more often than I’d like to admit. That’s when I realized I needed an outlet, a way to step away from my role as “Dad” and reconnect with myself. For me, that outlet became woodworking. Every weekend, I carve out an hour or two to work on a new project, and it’s like hitting a reset button on my brain.
Having a hobby lets you take a mental break from the stress and noise of daily life. Whether it’s sports, painting, gardening, or even gaming, that time you spend doing something just for you is like therapy. It clears your mind, helps you recharge, and makes you better equipped to handle whatever life throws your way.
Hobbies Set a Great Example for Your Kids
We spend so much time teaching our kids lessons about life—how to work hard, how to be kind, and how to follow their dreams. But how often do we demonstrate the importance of taking care of ourselves? When your kids see you pursuing a passion, it shows them that it’s okay to have interests outside of work and family. It teaches them the value of balance.
I’ve even started involving my kids in some of my woodworking projects. I let them sand wood or paint small pieces, and they love it. Not only do they get to see me enjoying something I’m passionate about, but it also gives us a chance to bond in a way that feels completely different from our usual routines. Who knows? I might even inspire a lifelong hobby in them.
Hobbies Make You Happier
Here’s the thing: being a dad doesn’t mean sacrificing your happiness for the rest of your life. When you take time for something that makes you happy, it doesn’t just benefit you—it benefits everyone around you. I’ve noticed that since I started making time for my hobby, I’m more patient, more present, and honestly, just a lot more fun to be around.
Hobbies give you something to look forward to. They remind you that you’re not just “Dad”—you’re also a person with your own dreams and interests. And when you’re happier, you’re a better dad, partner, and friend.
How to Make Time for Hobbies
I know what you’re thinking: “This all sounds great, but where do I find the time?” Trust me, I get it. Finding time for hobbies as a parent can feel impossible. But it’s not about having hours of free time—it’s about making the most of the time you have.
Start small. Maybe it’s 15 minutes in the evening after the kids are in bed or a half-hour on the weekend while they’re napping. Communicate with your partner, and work together to carve out time for yourself. It’s not about neglecting your responsibilities; it’s about balancing them with something that fuels you.
Final Thoughts
Every dad deserves a hobby. Not because you’re trying to escape your family, but because it helps you show up as the best version of yourself. So, dust off that guitar, grab those fishing rods, or pick up that sketchbook you haven’t touched in years. Trust me, it’s worth it. Your kids will admire you for it, your family will benefit from it, and most importantly, you’ll feel more like you
