I didn’t just wake up one day and decide to become a minimalist. It’s been a lifelong journey. Along the way, I’ve found several hobbies that fit the minimalist lifestyle. Minimalist hobbies are everyday hobbies. You don’t have to practice minimalism to choose simple hobbies.
I’ve had many friends over the years. I love all my friends, but some have had very non-minimalist hobbies: Hobbies that are less friendly to the Earth. Motorboats, jet skis, motorcycles, four-wheelers and race cars might be fun, but they’re killing the environment.
Maximalist Hobbies Leave A Bigger Footprint
When I first posted The 10 Step Challenge To Simple Living, a Facebook follower said, “I like your list, but I would replace music with photography.” My response was that I thought that was a great idea. So I decided to post a second post for #8 of the 10 Step Challenge.
Minimalist hobbies require little equipment. They’re hobbies that are easily mobile. They’re hobbies that are friendlier to the Earth than many alternatives.
Let’s Explore 9 Minimalist Hobbies
- Music: Music is my favorite. I play a variety of instruments. I’ve slowly moved toward smaller instruments. My favorites are harmonica, mandolin, ukulele and concertina. These are all space-saving instruments that are very easy to transport. Percussion instruments like shakers, tambourines and cajon drums are great, too.
- Reading: A book is a simple companion. You can grab a book and take it anywhere you go, whether it’s paper or electronic. If you still prefer paper books, you can trade them in when your done reading them.
- Writing: This is another simple hobby. All you need is a pen and some paper. You might prefer a laptop. I do most of my writing and blogging on a MacBook Air. You can write fiction, non-fiction, poetry, songs, or just practice journaling. Lots of choices.
- Drawing: A sketchpad and your choice of pencil, pen, charcoal or crayon, and you’ve got what you need. That leads us to #5 of the nine minimalist hobbies.
- Photography: I love taking pictures. It’s a simple hobby. You can use a point-and-shoot camera or a smart phone. If you’re serious, you might have to invest a little more money in your equipment. Either way, it’s a simple hobby and easy to take with you.
- Painting: Simple water-color painting doesn’t take up too much space and can be a great way to release your creative energy. Like most of these nine minimalist hobbies, you can create in a minimalist style.
- Gardening: I love landscaping. It requires more materials than the other hobbies on the list, but I landscape in a minimalist style. Simple gardening is a wonderful hobby and you can raise your own food, too.
- Martial Arts: My daughter and I practice karate together. All you need is a gee and a belt. I like a bo staff, too.
- Games: Simple games like playing cards and chess are entertaining and easy to carry.
What Are Your Hobbies?
When I look at my own hobby choices, most have been simple. Minimalist hobbies are perfect for people who live in small spaces. They’re great for those of us who are concerned with the environment. They’re easy to take with you. I hope you consider choosing a hobby that takes little equipment and leaves a small footprint.
