Be Like Amanda Seyfried: Get a Hobby This Year

The sun sets before five, the wind is whipping, the Christmas trees are on the curb – you’re back at work and the post‑holiday haze is hitting. Cookie cravings, a tinge of melancholy, and the urge to hibernate and fix your life all at once. In other words, it’s January.

You may already have your New Year’s resolutions all drawn up, but if we may, let us suggest one that might be a bit easier than getting up at 5 a.m. to train for a marathon: pick up a hobby. Scientific research suggests that having a hobby – especially one that takes you offline, out of the doomscroll, and into analog pleasures – is tied to increased happiness and wellbeing. Hobbies may even help you live longer: a 2025 study found that having a hobby reduces mortality risk by 29% in people over 50. The study says that hobbies differ from other leisure activities because they involve “intentional engagement and enjoyment.” So whether you’re crafting, making art, or volunteering, basically, you’re doing something for yourself, and the benefits are plentiful.

Why a Hobby is the Perfect New Year’s Resolution

Choosing a hobby gives you a structured yet flexible goal that keeps you motivated. It’s an activity that you can do at your own pace, in your own space, and it’s a great way to balance the demands of work, family, and personal growth.

• Improves mental health and reduces stress.
• Boosts creativity and problem‑solving skills.
• Creates a sense of community and social connection.
• Provides a tangible accomplishment you can show off.

Amanda Seyfried’s Hobbies: Inspiration and Insight

Over the years, Amanda has shared insight into her many delightful hobbies, from crocheting to magic tricks, and more. “I can’t do one thing. I have to be crocheting and doing something else,” she told Seth Meyers last year, appearing on his show to promote her crime drama Long Bright River. “I can crochet, which is very therapeutic, and then I listen to books on tape,” she added. She gifted Meyers a crochet Icelandic poppy she made, and said she often gifts her creations to friends, including a crochet purse for Sydney Sweeney after wrapping The Housemaid.

“I grew up playing the piano and clarinet, and now I play the guitar and the dulcimer, an acoustic Appalachian lap instrument I learned during the pandemic. Last year, I showed off my dulcimer skills on Jimmy Fallon with a cover of Joni Mitchell’s ‘California,’ stunning fans with the hidden talent.” – Amanda Seyfried

Amanda’s eclectic mix of music, crafts, and performance shows that a hobby can be as varied as you like – whether it’s a creative outlet, a social activity, or a way to learn a new skill. Her example reminds us that a hobby is not just a pastime; it’s a lifestyle choice that can enrich every facet of our lives.

Choosing the Right Hobby for You

The first step is to decide what you want to get out of a hobby. Ask yourself: Do I want to create something tangible? Do I want to learn a new skill? Do I want to meet new people? Once you have a goal, you can narrow down the options.

Popular Hobby Categories

• Crafting: crocheting, knitting, scrapbooking, woodworking, pottery
• Arts & Design: painting, drawing, photography, digital illustration
• Performing Arts: music, dance, theater, magic, improv
• Community & Social: book clubs, volunteering, cooking classes, hiking groups

How to Evaluate Your Options

Consider the following criteria to help you choose:

• Time Commitment: How many hours per week can you dedicate?
• Cost: Do you need expensive equipment or can you start with a low‑budget kit?
• Learning Curve: Is it something you can learn quickly or do you want a long‑term project?
• Social Aspect: Do you prefer solo work or group activities?

Getting Started: Tips and Resources

Once you’ve picked a hobby, the next step is to gather the right tools and set up a learning plan. Below are practical tips to get you started.

Step‑by‑Step Plan for Your Hobby Journey

1. Research: Read blogs, watch tutorials, and ask friends about the hobby.
2. Buy Supplies: Make a list of materials and purchase them.
3. Schedule: Allocate specific days for practice and progress tracking.
4. Practice: Dedicate at least 30 minutes to an hour each session.
5. Share: Post progress on social media or in a hobby group.

Resources to Explore

• Online tutorials: YouTube, Skillshare
• Local workshops: Check community centers, art studios, or hobby shops.
• Books & e‑books: “The Crafting Life” by Emily Smith, “Digital Painting Basics” by Alex K.
• Community groups: Facebook hobby groups, Meetup, local craft circles.

Wrap It Up: Making It Stick

A hobby is more than just a pastime; it’s a commitment to self‑growth and enjoyment. Keep your goals realistic, celebrate small victories, and stay flexible. As Amanda Seyfried proves, a hobby can be a source of inspiration and a catalyst for creativity. Let 2026 be the year of the hobby for you.

Ready to start? Pick a hobby, set a goal, and let the journey begin. Your future self will thank you for the time you invest in your passions.