Standing back from the daily rat race can be tricky, but taking time out to do something for yourself is important for your wellbeing. We were interested to see what's out there that doesn't fall under the usual 'socialising, going to the cinema and reading' that usually graces people's CVs - here are some of the most interesting activities we came across which are sure to prove for fun, stimulating and which may even lead you down a new career path in the future!
Learn a foreign language: For you keen travellers out there, imagine how amazing your next holiday would be if you could engage with the locals in a caf or the supermarket without any embarrassing, broken attempts at communicating the simplest things! Learning the local lingo can enrich every aspect of visiting a country, and you are guaranteed to learn loads about the culture, food and everyday aspects of that country - plus it's really sociable!
Become a pyrotechnic... This ticks a lot of boxes - it's got the 'thrill' effect, it's sociable as you work as part of a large team, it's creative and you get the buzz of a crowd's reaction to a display... and it's as detached from 'work' as you can get!! Some companies run pyrotechnic training days.
Alternatively, you can buy fireworks online http://www.galaxy-fireworks.co.uk/shop.asp and create a display suitable for your garden - fireworks companies should advise on the safety aspects to help you on your way.
Under the sea... If you love being in the water and are curious about life under the sea, scuba diving is great for keeping fit, it's relaxing and can be a great string to your bow as you can gain professional qualifications along the way... It clearly lends itself to discovering some amazing places; Egypt, Thailand, Venezuela... the world is your oyster (or tropical fish, dolphin, lion fish..._ You only need Google your local leisure centres to find scuba diving lessons and you'll be diving in no time!
Become the new Jamie Oliver...Okay not quite, but if you have a passion for food - why not experiment, and even sell your fave recipes, be it, cupcakes, sushi or chutney and see where it takes you. Why not join local craft fairs, or spread the word amongst friends - just make sure it stays fun and doesn't become extra work... maybe even combine it with our next idea...
Be a writer - Literally, why not start up a blog on something that really interests you; music, food or tiddlywinks... whatever gets you excited. Take photos, comment and invite people to share their thoughts on your chosen topic. Updating your blog means you'll be motivated to go out there and find some great new material to add to your site!
These are just a few hobbies we think would be great ways to spend your leisure time - but this is only scratching the surface! There any so many weird and wonderful things out there to spend your spare time doing (and helping your CV stand out from the crowd!) - but we hope these have given you a good kick start to finding your dream hobby!
