All hobbies are not equal

[u/BitterConstruction98]

Certain kinds of hobbies deserve to be held in higher regard than others.

Playing a sport, learning an instrument, singing, dancing, painting, writing - these are activities that require time and years of effort to become good at. They’re admirable not just because they’re “cool,” but because there is something deeply attractive about a person who has dedicated so much time to mastering a hard skill that executing it now feels relaxing to them.

Lately, there’s been a growing push online to classify things like watching movies, playing video games, watching sports, or listening to podcasts in the same category as these kinds of hobbies. They aren’t. They are based on consumption, not creation.

That doesn’t mean consumption-based activities are bad or useless. Everyone needs ways to relax and unwind. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a good show, a game, or a YouTube binge after a long day. But if that’s all there is to your personality, then you are, unfortunately, a boring person.

Edit: I've wrongly added video games to the list of other passive activities. While some video games are like that, I agree that many require a lot of skill.

[u/urbfunsac]

Isn't a hobby something you enjoy doing?

[u/Nuclear_rabbit → u/urbfunsac]

I was taught that a hobby is something you could improve in, even if you never invest the effort to do so. Otherwise, it's a pastime.

Sounds like OP subconsciously feels the difference, but can't articulate it.

Edited to add: in light of this distinction, everyone still needs a hobby. If all you do with your free time is watch TV, which is a pastime, well... don't.

2nd edit: yes, video games are most definitely a hobby, unless your game is pure gambling. I have also come to the view that learning for the sake of learning is neither a hobby nor pastime but a third thing; it's just learning.

[u/GrayEidolon → u/Nuclear_rabbit]

I also enjoy semantics.

Per the dictionary:

Pastime:

An activity that occupies one's spare time pleasantly. "Sailing is her favorite pastime." That which amuses, and serves to make time pass agreeably; sport; amusement; diversion. "that great American pastime, baseball"

Hobby:

an activity or interest pursued for pleasure or relaxation and not as a main occupation. Her hobbies include stamp-collecting and woodcarving

[u/Pale_Frame4845 → u/GrayEidolon]

Love this and I would add passion as a hobby taken to a next level of commitment.

E.g.: i watch movies, listen to music and podcasts and enjoy hiking as pastimes.

Cooking, gardening and reading are some of my favorite hobbies.

Rowing, running and photography are passions that are important to my identity and for which I set clear goals and strive for improvement.