My 15-year-old grandson is a competitive body-builder, but he also taught himself to sew, and he designs and sells custom clothing at his school and online. He has also been an avid reader of the Bible since he was six. I think he is well on his way to being a renaissance man.
Yes at 15, especially as a young man, learning to sew is a great hobby. Advise him, strongly, to learn a 2nd language. I mean really learn it, not just what they teach in school. I speak 3, taught myself w/ Pimsluer, & not only great for the brain, people highly respect a person who can do that-certainly Americans.
I second the learning another language. There's many benefits. You can better connect with the local culture when traveling internationally and not rely on an interpreter. You're able to communicate and even make friends with new immigrants to your country. And the BIGGEST advantage is learning to look at life through a different lense. Since languages are structured differently, even mostly related languages, your mind is forced to build new neural connections to construct phrases/sentences. An example from Spanish which I'm currently learning is relating to emotions and sensations. In English we often the verb 'to be' as in 'I am hungry' or 'I am angry' to express emotions and sensations. In Spanish, the verb often used to express emotions and sensations is 'to have' as in 'I have hunger' or 'I have anger'. There's likely better examples that express the differences in outlook about how we interact with each other and the world, this is just the one that jumps to mind at the moment
All of these 4 hobby groups have one important thing in common - the focus on the journey not the destination. hobbies should be a process you enjoy, the product is an possible bonus.
yes, but that is only a part of what makes this whole video so ridiculous. forgetting how weird it is to do a hobby not out of enjoyment but to try to appear a certain way, the whole concept would be anaethematic to an actual renaissance man.
This is actually a really good way to get started. It’s so easy to think “oh I have too much to do”, but thinking of each hobby as filling a particular sector of living a full life makes it feel more manageable.
Social: Tabletop RPG's Mental: Reading and Writing Physical: MMA and weightlifting Artistic: trying to get into drawing or at least calligraphy Gotta have some backup hobbies in case I'm not able to go with the main ones. I haven't played any RPG's since november.
@@jmass4207I think it depends on the group and game. I see that for a lot of people it helps. I personally like more regular card games and tabletop games with friends over things like D&D, though. I feel like all the performative roleplay and character management is too much when I normally crave something easy and relaxing after school/work.
@@jmass4207 Bro, some of the great friends I have to this day (almost in my 30s) I made when I was a young teen playing RPGs both online and in person. It actually helps a lot with socializing in the sense that it forces you to take people and their action into consideration
I like your idea of calligraphy as an art activity. It's easy to engage with a busy schedule and very practical too. Also for social relationships for me, besides card & board games, are church or charity activities.
And, if you are out of time, there is an hobby that fills the artistic, social, mental and physical activity: theater classes! I was part of a theater workshop for a month and I moved a lot and I made a lot of exercises, I met new people and also improved a lot of artistic expression and we discussed a lot about scenes, theory and I learned a lot of new things!
I recently watched the Netflix documentary The Blue Zones, about places where a larger % of people reach the age of 100. The presenter researched what they had in common with each other and found that it generally came down to something similar to having these different hobbies: they had continued social connections and support within their community (like a social hobby would), they ate healthy (not as a hobby unless you cook, but smart anyway), they exercised regularly (like a physical hobby) and they did something that gave them a sense of purpose and a goal (like an artistic hobby would). A mental hobby also helps to keep you sharp into old age. My grandmother played bridge and chess and mahjong regularly and read and watched murder mysteries. Plus you can combine them. Any hobby you do together with other people becomes a social hobby. Some artistic hobbies can be very physical (although might not be enough for physical exercise on their own).
Absolutely right. A good life is about doing a few simple things well. And like you say, you can pursue just one or two things that fulfil every part of it.
In my first job as a married man I worked with a tool and die maker. He was also a semi pro tennis player. He said he had learned to make a suit of clothes. When he bought a car the first thing did was take it apart and put it back together.
These are great! I completely agree. I'd add "develop a collection" as an optional fifth hobby but that might not be something that everyone feels a need to have in terms of a hobby. But a collection allows you to take a deep dive into something and can be social.
As someone who considers the idea of being a polymath appealing, i must say this video is great. The 4 hobbies aren't distinct, they're fundamental to growth and best of all is you don't have to sacrifice one or the other you can build upon all 4 by starting small, reiterating and experimenting gradually so you do not limit yourself but also don't overwhelm yourself either. That is just my advice, train yourself and raise the stakes overtime, there's no rush. Remember you're playing by your own rules and the journey is truly what matters (outcomes are a bonus) Apologies if it's wordy, alot more id say but overall fire video ❤🔥🔥 Edit: Saw your videos on the channel, yeahhh im definitely subbing! 😊😊
If some people want to judge my build here it is, I’m in Uni so I don’t have a ton of time to spare but here’s my current build Social: I have a girlfriend and some occasional study friends. No strong friend group rn Mental: Reading and studying math and physics in my free time, also doing a good bit of writing and various subjects with school work Physical: I’m trying to regain my running ability. I used to do half marathons but now I’m working back to 5 miles straight after a long break Artistic: Woodworking! It requires a good chunk of change to get started but it’s such an undervalued art form in today’s world!
Loved this advice. For anyone stuck on the artistic one, a fun thing to try is just aimless scribbling - knowing that you're going to throw it straight in the bin. You can do this on cardboard packaging that's about to go in the recycling. Get yourself a basic kids felt-tip pen, and let it flow move around on the card, then throw your creation away, and repeat. When you're bored of that, find something that catches your attention; a plant, a view from the window, anything - try to copy it, then throw it in the recycling. No one will see it. Keep doing that every day until you have something you just can't bear to throw away.
My 8 YO grandson asked me to build with Legos with him one day, something I've never played with before. So I started placing pieces together, not planning to make anything in particular. It was so much fun! Now I look forward to creating with Legos, and even though my creations aren't recognizable as any objects it doesn't matter at all. It's very freeing and best of all we have fun together.
This is probably the best video I’ve ever watch on RUclips. So much invaluable information all packed in to 9 minutes. Keep it up I appreciate this video a lot! 🤝
Thanks for the high quality and thoughtful video. I retired and embraced a collection of activities and hobbies. Since then I have distilled them down to a manageable number and am already satisfying the four recommendations. I am happy, satisfied, and endorse your outline for a satisfying array of ways to spend one’s time. I feel challenged, engaged, and well-rounded. Compliments on assembling and communicating what may be a path to happiness.
What a great video to end the year and to start the new one. It took me most of my life to realise that the four hobbies you mention provide necessary balance to life. I've never thought of such things in those terms but it makes sense. Luckily I have all four hobbies covered. I know that I need them all too. Very inspiring video. All the best for 2024.
Social hobby is a tough one. Ive got a dozen different hobbies, but social hobbies prove a different type of challenge. Finding one is difficult enough, but being able to break out of your routine and put yourself out there is tougher. I'd like to do exactly that though.
@@jakubgalinski2135 Was going to say this. Jiu Jitsu is great and if your nervous about having no experience martial arts gyms are super welcoming and friendly. Many newcomers are intimidated because they think there will be gate keeping, but it's the exact opposite.
Good video! I was surprised that you didn't mention sewing as an artistic pursuit since you have a beautiful antique sewing machine in the background. It's a very satisfying and practical hobby.
@@odysseas__ - people are still using those heirloom sewing machines, they are worthy of being restored if at all possible. They were built like tanks back in the day, and the last of the good ones were built in the 1950s, very early 60s. At least in the home machine space. There are some really great videos of people restoring those machines, often the mechanically-minded husbands of women who sew. There is a company in California that not only restores these machines but sometimes creates a whole new exterior finish if the original is ruined, creating works of art out of what is basically an old work of art. I consider this to be absolutely a great candidate hobby for a renaissance man or woman.
Such a fantastic video! Having followed you since long I can honestly say the quality of your content keeps getting better and better. As a fitness coach I whole heartedly agree that focus area number 3 is non-negotiable. Its benefits are sure to spill over into the other 3 areas. Also, maybe through these videos you are addressing your weakness in a way, creating and being part of a community. Thanks a lot for that, wish you a healthy and happy 2024!
I would add that there should be a 5th element - to take on a hobby that is altruistic or philanthropic. Most Renaissance men have a concern for humanity and/or the environment and should involve themselves in doing something like volunteering for a non-profit organisation or charity. The 4 hobbies are great, but you don't want to over-cultivate the self to the extent that it leads to egotism, but incorporating something self-less would enrich not only your own life but that of others and the environment. Doing something for others could also involve each of the 4 hobbies as well.
I thought renaissance was no more, people are single directed and lasered. Trumatizing it seems, - then I started to read, and found people like you. "While it is always best to believe in oneself, a little help from others can be a great blessing." - Uncle Iroh
You know what, this is actually a great blueprint for re-exploring oneself and establishing a basic routine to build a more solid and disciplined routine….good stuff
Great advice for mental health, I think. I’d say most people are inclined toward one, maybe two. Ensuring you have all four is a good way to avoid burnout, each supports the others.
One thing that I learned from a hobby -- take your time. I started building models which is something I did as a child. I started building models again and moved way, way too fast. I screwed up my first projects. I learned over time to slow down. Don't set a time limit. It has really helped me at my day job.
8:00 I really thought you were going to show us that you could operate that sewing machine behind you. ;-) Seriously though; well presented ideas - thanks for sharing. Cheers.
I do a lot of solitary hiking and climbing, but I regularly join birding groups on the trail. The Audubon Society publishes outings online. Never met a birder I didn’t get along with.
After reading this video and your other video "How to be a Renaissance Man in 3 Hours," this is some solid advice. Personally speaking, the flaw that I noticed in most school systems is that they fail to demonstrate their students that learning is a lifestyle. Seeking knowledge should be taken the same way as seeking fitness. A true successful education system would have: a) students who would actually enjoy the process of learning b) students who have a strong desire in returning to school during times of vacation and c) students who actually practice the knowledge learned in their free-time (this definitely does not includes homework).
This is terrific advice, thank you! I'm in the process of making a plan for 2024 and I'll certainly use this. Personally, I fall down in "creativity" but the other three areas are well covered. Happy New Year.😊
I struggle as well as I am terrible at art . For this area of my Renaissance I therefore go to the theatre or arthouse cinema preferably with a lady friend to discuss it afterwards. I also use my employment as a tool for being creative in my profession sometimes to the point of ridicule but hey ho
I have followed a Renaissance Man approach for about 15 years (had to step off for a bit with childcare) - I feel very fulfilled now and like life and meeting interesting people.I would add a fifth hobby though , that being a civic duty of some kind be it a school governor or a church council member etc
Hi! I am a musician and piano teacher, thinking about lots of these things as well. I would just like to say that music is the perfect way to combine these aspects of your intellectual and creative hobby (music) and the social value. You should not play music on your own! First of all you must get a teacher because you will not progress well on your own, it can be dangerous to play with a bad technique, and you will grow alot more with a teacher. Just look for something simple, cheap and so on. Now even better is to do music with other people. Create an amateur string quartet to play some simple things or find a pianist to accompany you, maybe ask someone you love to pick up another instrument so that you can play together. The best practice of all is to sing in a choir. This is the best activity of all for all of these things, even if you are not comfortable singing, if you want to practice music it is extremely important to be able to do that because it is the most direct connection between your ear and the sounds you are producing. It is the best social activity I know. Good luck and thank you for the inspiring videos!
Artistic ideas that are cheap... 1 drawing. 1 pencil or pen and 1 sheet of paper. 2 coloring. Small cheap box of pencils, print free color pages online. 3 writing. Already have a computer, start with a short story. Or use a pencil and writing pad as a tangible version.
social hobby: Toastmasters for public speaking mental hobby: learning Spanish and helping people publish their own books on Amazon physical hobby: running marathons and half marathons artistic hobby: writing novels and turning my poems into animated videos on RUclips.
Excellent video! Thank you for organizing those categories of hobbies. I am at a point in my life, I want explore more of different types of hobbies. One suggestion on the social hobby, if/when gathering person to person(s) arent😢 possiable ( busy schedule) do a phone call for catch ups ( texting as the last resorts). For future video, could you do introduction to some types of hobbies in each category. 😂 I know my imagination is some what not far enough.
I'd argue these hobbies can overlap. For example rock climbing can be social and challenge you physically. It doesn't always overlap, but you can totally have social interactions + get insanely strong.
I just LOVE the Singer sewing machine in the background! I have recently restored one, and I'm relearning how to sew, and design.. my birthday is close to Halloween, so I make some really wild stuff. I'm also making new musical instruments, because I've been jamming all my life. Getting into group music, n drum circles. ( I make my own drums,I don't just March to the beat of my own drums, I make them 4 myself, and others ROCK ON!!! stand out, even if it's just for self, Most people's opinion of You should not affect You. Value only the opinion of people that Metter to YOU, filter through the rest,diligently, Working on my Spanish really takes me back to Texas,, and it shall be an asset to my social ,and mental health, and could help in many ways beyond my music, and future employability. PEACE OUT !! H.
This guy has the new grating Cockney Accent… Close my eyes and he could be a Rapper or PoundShop Gangsta. Or one of the new breed of BBC or Channel Four continuity announcers.
Do you journal? If so, you can incorporate each aspects as a small section in your journal that you visit regularly. Let's say today you write and reflect on your physical growth, tomorrow on mental, and you repeat this for next week or two. This is related to time-boxing and 'du Jour' concept that I read somewhere.
Very interesting! I would add a spiritual part even though it can overlap with the mental part. All that you say about the creative side is what I tell my students (I teach french), because I find self-sabotaging is their worst enemy, so it's comforting to hear it from others too 😊
Interesting video. I like the approach of calling them hobbies, i think a lot of people are trying to monetize stuff too quickly etc without actually figuring out if they enjoy the craft.
Thanks, and that's a great point. I'd say you have to get past the burst of optimism early on, and see the craft for what it is, struggles included. Only then do you get a clear vision.
Playing an instrument argueably falls into this category but as a nr 5 i would add a mindullness/medative hobby. Either if it's actually medidating or taking hikes by yourself or whatnot. Even if hiking is exercising, that type of activity and alone time really let's you focus inwards which you often don't really get to do with most other hobbies or activities.
● Social: Lodge, where I gather with like-minded men whom I would otherwise never meet in a venue unlike the rest of my day. ● Mental: Physics/Math, revisiting stuff I first studied a long time ago, and exploring the chapters that didn't get covered in class. "Daddy, are you reading a book with equations in it? It's Saturday." ● Physical: Walking, especially during my lunch break (with my phone in the car). ● Artistic: Writing, both a personal journal and brain-storming work ideas. The former gets "the swirl" out of my head, and the latter allows me to entertain "crackpot" ideas that might be practical ... or not. ● Nurturing: Cooking, preparing meals for those I care for is always satisfying.
You are super cool... and a rare person to be thinking the way you do... you must have trouble finding like-minded fellow travellers... ...and when you do... you will be engaging those special friends through long philosophical video calls across the globe... ...but that is why the internet and RUclips exist... not just for cat videos... tho it is good to laugh... Citizens like you who are truly engaging life in a conscious... energetic... creative... and philosophical manner... is the manner in which great polity and civilization is created... ...Strong Civilization starts... from the individual... then to the family by example... then to the immediate community through alliances... then to the globe through great ideas... form your ideas from your own internal fire... test them creatively... and improve your ideas over and over... good luck... I am cheering for you!
Add to that learning a practical craft as a fifth hobby field. Not neccessarely something artistic but something that can be used in DIY (or that can be monetised at flea markets). Ideally, it might be something that is both practical handicraft AND artistic, like leather work, spinning/weaving/sewing or wood work, maybe smithing.
That's fair, I see some of the best hobbies in the artistic area as those types. It's a huge change of pace and nice to work on something physical and real.
You are missing one category: Spiritual, especially as you get older. For renaissance types - Anthroposophy (Western) or Buddhism/Yoga(Eastern) probably best.
For social hobbies and anyone interested: local mutual-aid, communal, and/or socialist activist groups/organizations are usually free/low-cost and a great way to meet people with similar values while being of service to your community or world. Study groups within activist groups are great too, being able to learn about something you’re passionate about while discussing it amongst comrades is really great
I have an amendment to these guidelines - for one of your activities, choose something you would not normally seem to take. If you're very masculine, go dance in the local ballet open house (same if you're really feminine, take up blacksmithing if it interests)) if you've never given lasertag any thought and wanna try it, go get some friends, see if you can make something happen. Go wild - certainly take what you want to go for, also try anything that might peak your interest, and just try broadly - you never know what is for you until you try it, getting into that action yourself to see.
A good idea for a video, and a good video. The Medici's and their Teachers considered this question at length. I would add the deepening of our knowledge of natural medicine and supplements. Healing and understanding the human body is is probably the first rule.
I actually have several hobbies and still feel like shit. I would add having a job as fundamental for stability. Being unemployed is miserable, even with tasks and hobbies. I go to the gym, I do theater, I compose music and practice one instrument for 3h, I have read more books this month than in the whole 2023, I am learning sanskrit and hindi, I go out with friends once a week, Im trying to build a meditation practice so I can put up with anxiety and melancholy. Everytime I'm not doing any of this I feel like shit. I don't feel spread thinly as I've always had several hobbies during my life, including during college. Since I've been unemployed for almost a year now, I really feel a lack of meaning in my life and my mental health is as low as during the pandemic, maybe almost passing it. Even though I have rehearsals, they're not enough to fulfil my social needs and I feel really lonely. I can't get a girlfriend because I don't meet new people anymore and I struggle to make meaningful connections because I've developed a barrier that distances me from people. I don't need therapy, I need my old life back lmao I feel like an old man rotting on a retirement home. Edit: I actually have great friends and people close to me. I can maintain my current friendships, I just started to struggle socially because I only go out at night with the same group of people and I don't meet new people. Stopped using discord like 2 years ago and I only play singleplayer games.
I hope you can turn it around. On the bright side, once that's in order, it sounds like you have a solid foundation for a better state of mind. You're right though, a job is vital; I read recently that one of the three pillars for meaningful life is to feel competent -useful to others in some way. Good luck! And my email is always there too.
I love this. My only question is how does one do justice to 4 entire hobbies given that we need to also cook, clean, and work a 40 hour workweek. Because I find myself needing food and money for all these hobbies...
Thanks, and there's many ways you could look at it. Maybe save one or two for more infrequent occasions, or have them cover multiple areas of life at once, so every itch is scratched. Or heck, you can even ease down one that you don't feel is as important to you. Just depends on you as a person.
I think the fifth element (hehe) or category is Charity. Any thing you do that is not for your benefit or your immediate group or family. The reason this is important is not moral. Its important because it moves your attention out of your own zone of comfort and encourages empathy. You start seeing those cardboard cutouts we call strangers as real people. It also creates connections in your brain between your own world (physical and mental) and the greater world. Sounds a bit exagerated and pompous i know but it can be just a simple act of generosity you commit to over time. Do shopping for an older neighbour, get your kids to mow someone's lawn (charity by proxy) do a few hours a month at a church or other charity, put a couple of dollars in someone's cup every week, buy The Big Issue (magazine sold by homeless or ex homeless), sponsor an orphan in a struggling country....whatever. Free labour or money, it doesnt matter. Just my opinion of course but it can give such benefits that outweigh the time you spend.
I know it might be a silly question, but does playing guitar and singing count as an artistic hobby? I probably should start composing, I still only play already existing songs for now...
My 15-year-old grandson is a competitive body-builder, but he also taught himself to sew, and he designs and sells custom clothing at his school and online. He has also been an avid reader of the Bible since he was six. I think he is well on his way to being a renaissance man.
Sounds like it!
Yes at 15, especially as a young man, learning to sew is a great hobby. Advise him, strongly, to learn a 2nd language. I mean really learn it, not just what they teach in school.
I speak 3, taught myself w/ Pimsluer, & not only great for the brain, people highly respect a person who can do that-certainly Americans.
I second the learning another language. There's many benefits. You can better connect with the local culture when traveling internationally and not rely on an interpreter. You're able to communicate and even make friends with new immigrants to your country. And the BIGGEST advantage is learning to look at life through a different lense. Since languages are structured differently, even mostly related languages, your mind is forced to build new neural connections to construct phrases/sentences.
An example from Spanish which I'm currently learning is relating to emotions and sensations. In English we often the verb 'to be' as in 'I am hungry' or 'I am angry' to express emotions and sensations. In Spanish, the verb often used to express emotions and sensations is 'to have' as in 'I have hunger' or 'I have anger'. There's likely better examples that express the differences in outlook about how we interact with each other and the world, this is just the one that jumps to mind at the moment
All of these 4 hobby groups have one important thing in common - the focus on the journey not the destination. hobbies should be a process you enjoy, the product is an possible bonus.
Well said, you have to love the journey or else the joy you receive is conditional
I think a key thing about this is that... there is still a product. But the product is you, a better you.
yes, but that is only a part of what makes this whole video so ridiculous. forgetting how weird it is to do a hobby not out of enjoyment but to try to appear a certain way, the whole concept would be anaethematic to an actual renaissance man.
@@dalelane1948 Who said you're not supposed to enjoy them? And it's nothing to do with APPEARING a certain way, but BEING that way.
sad, you just don't get it@@odysseas__
This is actually a really good way to get started. It’s so easy to think “oh I have too much to do”, but thinking of each hobby as filling a particular sector of living a full life makes it feel more manageable.
Thanks, and you can always start out with just one and gradually develop the others at your own pace
Social: Tabletop RPG's
Mental: Reading and Writing
Physical: MMA and weightlifting
Artistic: trying to get into drawing or at least calligraphy
Gotta have some backup hobbies in case I'm not able to go with the main ones. I haven't played any RPG's since november.
Sounds like a solid selection
Not gonna lie, playing role playing games doesn’t fully cut it unless you actually spend time ‘in person’ with the other people before or after.
@@jmass4207I think it depends on the group and game. I see that for a lot of people it helps. I personally like more regular card games and tabletop games with friends over things like D&D, though. I feel like all the performative roleplay and character management is too much when I normally crave something easy and relaxing after school/work.
@@jmass4207 Bro, some of the great friends I have to this day (almost in my 30s) I made when I was a young teen playing RPGs both online and in person. It actually helps a lot with socializing in the sense that it forces you to take people and their action into consideration
I like your idea of calligraphy as an art activity. It's easy to engage with a busy schedule and very practical too.
Also for social relationships for me, besides card & board games, are church or charity activities.
And, if you are out of time, there is an hobby that fills the artistic, social, mental and physical activity: theater classes! I was part of a theater workshop for a month and I moved a lot and I made a lot of exercises, I met new people and also improved a lot of artistic expression and we discussed a lot about scenes, theory and I learned a lot of new things!
And if you help build sets, props, costumes...that is creative
I recently watched the Netflix documentary The Blue Zones, about places where a larger % of people reach the age of 100. The presenter researched what they had in common with each other and found that it generally came down to something similar to having these different hobbies: they had continued social connections and support within their community (like a social hobby would), they ate healthy (not as a hobby unless you cook, but smart anyway), they exercised regularly (like a physical hobby) and they did something that gave them a sense of purpose and a goal (like an artistic hobby would). A mental hobby also helps to keep you sharp into old age. My grandmother played bridge and chess and mahjong regularly and read and watched murder mysteries.
Plus you can combine them. Any hobby you do together with other people becomes a social hobby. Some artistic hobbies can be very physical (although might not be enough for physical exercise on their own).
Absolutely right. A good life is about doing a few simple things well. And like you say, you can pursue just one or two things that fulfil every part of it.
Great insight! I must give that doc a watch.
And physical hobbies can be artistic, fencing, dancing and martial arts are all artistic expression of the body.
In my first job as a married man I worked with a tool and die maker. He was also a semi pro tennis player. He said he had learned to make a suit of clothes. When he bought a car the first thing did was take it apart and put it back together.
These are great! I completely agree. I'd add "develop a collection" as an optional fifth hobby but that might not be something that everyone feels a need to have in terms of a hobby. But a collection allows you to take a deep dive into something and can be social.
Thanks -a collection certainly forces you to slow down and that's precious in a world as fast as ours
I like your creativity but… hoarding. It's a real thing. 😂
As someone who considers the idea of being a polymath appealing, i must say this video is great.
The 4 hobbies aren't distinct, they're fundamental to growth and best of all is you don't have to sacrifice one or the other you can build upon all 4 by starting small, reiterating and experimenting gradually so you do not limit yourself but also don't overwhelm yourself either.
That is just my advice, train yourself and raise the stakes overtime, there's no rush.
Remember you're playing by your own rules and the journey is truly what matters (outcomes are a bonus)
Apologies if it's wordy, alot more id say but overall fire video ❤🔥🔥
Edit: Saw your videos on the channel, yeahhh im definitely subbing! 😊😊
Thanks, good to have you! And I agree too, it's about taking it slow, keeping growth sustainable and enjoying the process itself
If some people want to judge my build here it is, I’m in Uni so I don’t have a ton of time to spare but here’s my current build
Social: I have a girlfriend and some occasional study friends. No strong friend group rn
Mental: Reading and studying math and physics in my free time, also doing a good bit of writing and various subjects with school work
Physical: I’m trying to regain my running ability. I used to do half marathons but now I’m working back to 5 miles straight after a long break
Artistic: Woodworking! It requires a good chunk of change to get started but it’s such an undervalued art form in today’s world!
Loved this advice. For anyone stuck on the artistic one, a fun thing to try is just aimless scribbling - knowing that you're going to throw it straight in the bin. You can do this on cardboard packaging that's about to go in the recycling. Get yourself a basic kids felt-tip pen, and let it flow move around on the card, then throw your creation away, and repeat. When you're bored of that, find something that catches your attention; a plant, a view from the window, anything - try to copy it, then throw it in the recycling. No one will see it. Keep doing that every day until you have something you just can't bear to throw away.
Thanks, and that's a brilliant idea!
You can do the some thing with a small pile of Lego bricks. Build something in 5 minutes and break it up.
My 8 YO grandson asked me to build with Legos with him one day, something I've never played with before. So I started placing pieces together, not planning to make anything in particular. It was so much fun! Now I look forward to creating with Legos, and even though my creations aren't recognizable as any objects it doesn't matter at all. It's very freeing and best of all we have fun together.
This is probably the best video I’ve ever watch on RUclips. So much invaluable information all packed in to 9 minutes. Keep it up I appreciate this video a lot! 🤝
Cheers man, I appreciate it
Invaluable as in "without any value"?
Thanks for the high quality and thoughtful video. I retired and embraced a collection of activities and hobbies. Since then I have distilled them down to a manageable number and am already satisfying the four recommendations. I am happy, satisfied, and endorse your outline for a satisfying array of ways to spend one’s time. I feel challenged, engaged, and well-rounded. Compliments on assembling and communicating what may be a path to happiness.
Amazing to hear that, and thanks
What a great video to end the year and to start the new one. It took me most of my life to realise that the four hobbies you mention provide necessary balance to life. I've never thought of such things in those terms but it makes sense. Luckily I have all four hobbies covered. I know that I need them all too. Very inspiring video. All the best for 2024.
Thanks, and I hope you drive that momentum forward in the new year. All the best to you!
Social hobby is a tough one. Ive got a dozen different hobbies, but social hobbies prove a different type of challenge. Finding one is difficult enough, but being able to break out of your routine and put yourself out there is tougher. I'd like to do exactly that though.
I agree, it's the same for me. It's hard at first, but if you can find the right people, it's all worth it
Marshall arts it covers both phisicaly, social and mental.
Judo, Jiu Jitsu, Boks, Wrestling.
Rugby as semi martial art 😂
@@jakubgalinski2135 honestly I really want to do martial arts, and I was thinking the same thing. I just don't have the money to afford classes.
Exactly. I was gonna say, so Jiu Jitsu or something and you will cover all 4 at once!
@@jakubgalinski2135 Was going to say this. Jiu Jitsu is great and if your nervous about having no experience martial arts gyms are super welcoming and friendly. Many newcomers are intimidated because they think there will be gate keeping, but it's the exact opposite.
Good video! I was surprised that you didn't mention sewing as an artistic pursuit since you have a beautiful antique sewing machine in the background. It's a very satisfying and practical hobby.
Thanks, and its certainly an option. That one is more of an heirloom, I have no idea how to use it..
@@odysseas__ - people are still using those heirloom sewing machines, they are worthy of being restored if at all possible. They were built like tanks back in the day, and the last of the good ones were built in the 1950s, very early 60s. At least in the home machine space. There are some really great videos of people restoring those machines, often the mechanically-minded husbands of women who sew. There is a company in California that not only restores these machines but sometimes creates a whole new exterior finish if the original is ruined, creating works of art out of what is basically an old work of art. I consider this to be absolutely a great candidate hobby for a renaissance man or woman.
@@bitrudder3792 Absolutely, I can see a lot of workmanship and expression going into that.
great video man i love that u summarize what humans really need to be happy in their life
Thanks, always means a lot
Such a fantastic video! Having followed you since long I can honestly say the quality of your content keeps getting better and better.
As a fitness coach I whole heartedly agree that focus area number 3 is non-negotiable. Its benefits are sure to spill over into the other 3 areas.
Also, maybe through these videos you are addressing your weakness in a way, creating and being part of a community. Thanks a lot for that, wish you a healthy and happy 2024!
Thanks man, glad you think so! Wishing you a prosperous year too
I would add that there should be a 5th element - to take on a hobby that is altruistic or philanthropic. Most Renaissance men have a concern for humanity and/or the environment and should involve themselves in doing something like volunteering for a non-profit organisation or charity. The 4 hobbies are great, but you don't want to over-cultivate the self to the extent that it leads to egotism, but incorporating something self-less would enrich not only your own life but that of others and the environment. Doing something for others could also involve each of the 4 hobbies as well.
That's a great point actually
I thought renaissance was no more, people are single directed and lasered. Trumatizing it seems,
- then I started to read, and found people like you.
"While it is always best to believe in oneself, a little help from others can be a great blessing." - Uncle Iroh
You're right, nowadays specialisation is encouraged in work and school, but being general and well-rounded has so many perks to it
That was surprisingly sane. Subbed.
Thanks! Good to have you
All of this is right spot on. I have the first two. The last two I am working on. Thank you for making this. Very inspirational.
Thanks! And good luck in getting those up
You know what, this is actually a great blueprint for re-exploring oneself and establishing a basic routine to build a more solid and disciplined routine….good stuff
Thanks! I hope it helps you get there
Well look at that… the algorithm found something new that I actually loved! Great video, I’ll make sure to keep an eye on your channel! 😊
Thank you, really appreciate that
Great advice for mental health, I think. I’d say most people are inclined toward one, maybe two. Ensuring you have all four is a good way to avoid burnout, each supports the others.
Thanks, and that's a good point
Sadly, I will never be a Renaissance man. Renaissance woman, perhaps.
Haha don't worry, it's not limited to men. It's just that the concept is named that way.
Renaissance girlies unite!
Another aspiring Renaissance woman here :)
@@AmyAnnetteHeniongood luck and also, your picture is gorgeous (:
Sorry to hear that
One thing that I learned from a hobby -- take your time. I started building models which is something I did as a child. I started building models again and moved way, way too fast. I screwed up my first projects. I learned over time to slow down. Don't set a time limit. It has really helped me at my day job.
Good point, it has to be sustainable more than anything
I'm a renassaince man. 🐉🌠🌌
You are a good person and well done with your channel, blessings from Italy! 🇮🇹❤️🔥
Thanks, appreciate that
As I think some others have noted, "becoming" something or "being" something isn't the object; its the doing that matters.
Well said
Your videos are very well done. Interesting, motivating, logical, and create an excitement to level up. I appreciate you for sharing your content!
Thanks, always much appreciated
Team sports kills two birds with one stone. Social activity and physical one! Personally love volleyball and basketball
For sure, sounds like one of the best things you can do
Thank you for this. I wish you great success and growth for this channel.
Thanks, I appreciate it!
Such a gem of a channel
Thanks!
8:00 I really thought you were going to show us that you could operate that sewing machine behind you. ;-) Seriously though; well presented ideas - thanks for sharing. Cheers.
Haha maybe I'll save tailoring for the future. And thanks too!
I do a lot of solitary hiking and climbing, but I regularly join birding groups on the trail. The Audubon Society publishes outings online. Never met a birder I didn’t get along with.
They sound chill for sure, and that's a nice best of both worlds situation
After reading this video and your other video "How to be a Renaissance Man in 3 Hours," this is some solid advice. Personally speaking, the flaw that I noticed in most school systems is that they fail to demonstrate their students that learning is a lifestyle. Seeking knowledge should be taken the same way as seeking fitness. A true successful education system would have:
a) students who would actually enjoy the process of learning
b) students who have a strong desire in returning to school during times of vacation
and c) students who actually practice the knowledge learned in their free-time (this definitely does not includes homework).
Well said, there has to be a way to add intrinsic motivation and meaning to the whole process beyond an end of year test
This is terrific advice, thank you! I'm in the process of making a plan for 2024 and I'll certainly use this. Personally, I fall down in "creativity" but the other three areas are well covered. Happy New Year.😊
I appreciate it -hope you get some good momentum going forward
I struggle as well as I am terrible at art . For this area of my Renaissance I therefore go to the theatre or arthouse cinema preferably with a lady friend to discuss it afterwards. I also use my employment as a tool for being creative in my profession sometimes to the point of ridicule but hey ho
I have followed a Renaissance Man approach for about 15 years (had to step off for a bit with childcare) - I feel very fulfilled now and like life and meeting interesting people.I would add a fifth hobby though , that being a civic duty of some kind be it a school governor or a church council member etc
Nice to hear that, and I agree. It's feasible too because they're often a weekly (or even less frequent) time commitment, making it easier to fit in.
Very helpful. I'll be considering this video as I plan for 2024. Thank you!
That's a great idea, and thanks!
Hi! I am a musician and piano teacher, thinking about lots of these things as well. I would just like to say that music is the perfect way to combine these aspects of your intellectual and creative hobby (music) and the social value. You should not play music on your own! First of all you must get a teacher because you will not progress well on your own, it can be dangerous to play with a bad technique, and you will grow alot more with a teacher. Just look for something simple, cheap and so on. Now even better is to do music with other people. Create an amateur string quartet to play some simple things or find a pianist to accompany you, maybe ask someone you love to pick up another instrument so that you can play together. The best practice of all is to sing in a choir. This is the best activity of all for all of these things, even if you are not comfortable singing, if you want to practice music it is extremely important to be able to do that because it is the most direct connection between your ear and the sounds you are producing. It is the best social activity I know. Good luck and thank you for the inspiring videos!
Yes, amazing advice here! And thanks too
very inspiring and motivating, thank you for that
Thanks! Hope it helps
As a 18 year old girl , I am so ready to become a renaissance man.
Great videos keep up the good work man!
Thank you!
Artistic ideas that are cheap...
1 drawing. 1 pencil or pen and 1 sheet of paper.
2 coloring. Small cheap box of pencils, print free color pages online.
3 writing. Already have a computer, start with a short story. Or use a pencil and writing pad as a tangible version.
Great ideas, and important too. Nobody needs to shell out on a lot just to try different things.
social hobby: Toastmasters for public speaking
mental hobby: learning Spanish and helping people publish their own books on Amazon
physical hobby: running marathons and half marathons
artistic hobby: writing novels and turning my poems into animated videos on RUclips.
Brilliant and unique collection, I like it
This is real self improvement. Thanks for this
Thanks!
Writing original songs in a band that performs regularly covers all 4 of these.
That's perfect then
I'm happy to say I have most of this covered. Not so much on the social hobby side, but I spend plenty of time with other people anyway.
That's just as great
Fencing.
It’s social, physical, mental and artistic. Plus, learn Italian rapier and it’s the perfect activity for an aspiring renaissance man
Very cool, it does have that charismatic aura to it.
Excellent video! Thank you for organizing those categories of hobbies. I am at a point in my life, I want explore more of different types of hobbies.
One suggestion on the social hobby, if/when gathering person to person(s) arent😢 possiable ( busy schedule) do a phone call for catch ups ( texting as the last resorts).
For future video, could you do introduction to some types of hobbies in each category. 😂 I know my imagination is some what not far enough.
Thanks, and that's a good idea.
Keep going my friend, you are spitting facts.
Thanks, always appreciate it
I'd argue these hobbies can overlap. For example rock climbing can be social and challenge you physically. It doesn't always overlap, but you can totally have social interactions + get insanely strong.
For sure, you can hit every aspect with just one or two things
Thanks for this video Man. Very helpful.
I just LOVE the Singer sewing machine in the background! I have recently restored one, and I'm relearning how to sew, and design.. my birthday is close to Halloween, so I make some really wild stuff. I'm also making new musical instruments, because I've been jamming all my life. Getting into group music, n drum circles. ( I make my own drums,I don't just March to the beat of my own drums, I make them 4 myself, and others ROCK ON!!! stand out, even if it's just for self, Most people's opinion of You should not affect You. Value only the opinion of people that Metter to YOU, filter through the rest,diligently, Working on my Spanish really takes me back to Texas,, and it shall be an asset to my social ,and mental health, and could help in many ways beyond my music, and future employability. PEACE OUT !! H.
Nice, that's real cool! I have no idea how to use the machine, it's more of an heirloom at this point.
great video mate. simple yet effective, missed these type of videos👍🏻
Thanks, happy to hear you found value
This guy has the new grating Cockney Accent… Close my eyes and he could be a Rapper or PoundShop Gangsta. Or one of the new breed of BBC or Channel Four continuity announcers.
Cockney? I think you're thinking of the wrong one..
Social: aikido
Mental: Learning Japanese and Formal Logic
Physical: running (10km, 5km)
Artistic: piano
Nice set
Do you journal? If so, you can incorporate each aspects as a small section in your journal that you visit regularly. Let's say today you write and reflect on your physical growth, tomorrow on mental, and you repeat this for next week or two.
This is related to time-boxing and 'du Jour' concept that I read somewhere.
Rarely, but that's a great idea tbh. If I get more into it, I'll be sure to add that
Great stuff mate. Cheers from NY.
Thank you!
Very interesting! I would add a spiritual part even though it can overlap with the mental part.
All that you say about the creative side is what I tell my students (I teach french), because I find self-sabotaging is their worst enemy, so it's comforting to hear it from others too 😊
Thanks! And yeah I'd add spiritual as the fifth one for sure
Excelent ideias. Thank you, man!
Thank you!
Terrific advice and presentation. Much needed 👏🔥
Thanks, really appreciate it
Where did you acquire these concepts? My late mentor taught me very similar concepts... I appreciate your video... Thank you for the reminder
I first encountered them on the Art of Manliness blog -one of my favourites
Excellent! At 70 years old I am going to take your advice.
Nice, hope it goes well for you!
Interesting video. I like the approach of calling them hobbies, i think a lot of people are trying to monetize stuff too quickly etc without actually figuring out if they enjoy the craft.
Thanks, and that's a great point. I'd say you have to get past the burst of optimism early on, and see the craft for what it is, struggles included. Only then do you get a clear vision.
Great video man good luck in all you do
Thanks man, really appreciate that
Great video my bro!
Thanks man
Playing an instrument argueably falls into this category but as a nr 5 i would add a mindullness/medative hobby. Either if it's actually medidating or taking hikes by yourself or whatnot. Even if hiking is exercising, that type of activity and alone time really let's you focus inwards which you often don't really get to do with most other hobbies or activities.
I like this video a lot. I'm not sure I totally agree with _all_ of it. But it's something to consider for certain.
Thanks, I appreciate it
@mrvee5395 What do you disagree with? Just curious
● Social: Lodge, where I gather with like-minded men whom I would otherwise never meet in a venue unlike the rest of my day.
● Mental: Physics/Math, revisiting stuff I first studied a long time ago, and exploring the chapters that didn't get covered in class. "Daddy, are you reading a book with equations in it? It's Saturday."
● Physical: Walking, especially during my lunch break (with my phone in the car).
● Artistic: Writing, both a personal journal and brain-storming work ideas. The former gets "the swirl" out of my head, and the latter allows me to entertain "crackpot" ideas that might be practical ... or not.
● Nurturing: Cooking, preparing meals for those I care for is always satisfying.
Brilliant set, I can relate to the mental one. It's refreshing to return to school subjects when you rediscover the interest.
Strangely, these ideas remind me of Primary School. Which is a good thing - or it was when I was there 50 years ago.❤
I suppose it's when you are given room to do a bit of everything
I really need to work on the social and physical aspects. Happy New Year! 🍾🎉🎊📚
Happy new year to you too!
Loved the idea of getting wiser each day ❤
You are super cool... and a rare person to be thinking the way you do... you must have trouble finding like-minded fellow travellers...
...and when you do... you will be engaging those special friends through long philosophical video calls across the globe...
...but that is why the internet and RUclips exist... not just for cat videos... tho it is good to laugh...
Citizens like you who are truly engaging life in a conscious... energetic... creative... and philosophical manner... is the manner in which great polity and civilization is created...
...Strong Civilization starts... from the individual... then to the family by example... then to the immediate community through alliances... then to the globe through great ideas...
form your ideas from your own internal fire... test them creatively... and improve your ideas over and over... good luck... I am cheering for you!
Thanks man, and I liked your point about civilization. I feel that strongly.
Interesting way to look at this development!
Thanks, hope it helps
Social: don’t know yet, perhaps something artistic or volunteering idk
Physical: calisthenics
Mental: coding (profession), wanna go into 3D printing
Artistic: cooking (bbq)
Solid set, I like it. The social part is hardest for me too.
Add to that learning a practical craft as a fifth hobby field. Not neccessarely something artistic but something that can be used in DIY (or that can be monetised at flea markets). Ideally, it might be something that is both practical handicraft AND artistic, like leather work, spinning/weaving/sewing or wood work, maybe smithing.
That's fair, I see some of the best hobbies in the artistic area as those types. It's a huge change of pace and nice to work on something physical and real.
Just what I needed: moving out for the second time, but this time I'll be living all alone. Love your work and guidance. Thank you!
Thanks, and best of luck to you
Amateur (ham) radio certainly meets #1 and 2. Greatest hobby in the world. A true lifetime hobby.
I've heard that's fun, makes me real curious
Absolutely fantastic content my friend! You have a new subscriber.
Thanks! Good to have you here
You are missing one category: Spiritual, especially as you get older. For renaissance types - Anthroposophy (Western) or Buddhism/Yoga(Eastern) probably best.
I agree, this would be the fifth category
For social hobbies and anyone interested: local mutual-aid, communal, and/or socialist activist groups/organizations are usually free/low-cost and a great way to meet people with similar values while being of service to your community or world. Study groups within activist groups are great too, being able to learn about something you’re passionate about while discussing it amongst comrades is really great
As a leftist thank you for this! I’ll go try this out
I have an amendment to these guidelines - for one of your activities, choose something you would not normally seem to take. If you're very masculine, go dance in the local ballet open house (same if you're really feminine, take up blacksmithing if it interests)) if you've never given lasertag any thought and wanna try it, go get some friends, see if you can make something happen. Go wild - certainly take what you want to go for, also try anything that might peak your interest, and just try broadly - you never know what is for you until you try it, getting into that action yourself to see.
That's a fair point, although I'd always lay out the 'why' behind it.
Thank you for this!
Much appreciated
My four:
Social: choral singing
Mental: learning languages
Physical: dance - blues, tango, and swing
Artistic: drawing
Thanks for this info, I am subscriber number 10000 that is nice hihi
Crazy number.. and I appreciate it!
Nice summary. Thanks!
Much appreciated!
Great video! New subscriber.
Thanks, good to have you!
A good idea for a video, and a good video. The Medici's and their Teachers considered this question at length.
I would add the deepening of our knowledge of natural medicine and supplements.
Healing and understanding the human body is is probably the first rule.
Thanks, and a fair point. Understanding nutrition and health is essential, especially nowadays with poor diets and sedentary jobs
I actually have several hobbies and still feel like shit. I would add having a job as fundamental for stability. Being unemployed is miserable, even with tasks and hobbies. I go to the gym, I do theater, I compose music and practice one instrument for 3h, I have read more books this month than in the whole 2023, I am learning sanskrit and hindi, I go out with friends once a week, Im trying to build a meditation practice so I can put up with anxiety and melancholy. Everytime I'm not doing any of this I feel like shit.
I don't feel spread thinly as I've always had several hobbies during my life, including during college. Since I've been unemployed for almost a year now, I really feel a lack of meaning in my life and my mental health is as low as during the pandemic, maybe almost passing it. Even though I have rehearsals, they're not enough to fulfil my social needs and I feel really lonely. I can't get a girlfriend because I don't meet new people anymore and I struggle to make meaningful connections because I've developed a barrier that distances me from people. I don't need therapy, I need my old life back lmao I feel like an old man rotting on a retirement home.
Edit: I actually have great friends and people close to me. I can maintain my current friendships, I just started to struggle socially because I only go out at night with the same group of people and I don't meet new people. Stopped using discord like 2 years ago and I only play singleplayer games.
I hope you can turn it around. On the bright side, once that's in order, it sounds like you have a solid foundation for a better state of mind. You're right though, a job is vital; I read recently that one of the three pillars for meaningful life is to feel competent -useful to others in some way. Good luck! And my email is always there too.
I love this. My only question is how does one do justice to 4 entire hobbies given that we need to also cook, clean, and work a 40 hour workweek. Because I find myself needing food and money for all these hobbies...
Thanks, and there's many ways you could look at it. Maybe save one or two for more infrequent occasions, or have them cover multiple areas of life at once, so every itch is scratched.
Or heck, you can even ease down one that you don't feel is as important to you. Just depends on you as a person.
Great advice. Thank you!
Much appreciated!
i've kinda always done this to some degree, nice to know i don't just have a short attention span.
Nice, and life's fun when you do a lot of different things
As a creative person I am doing these things all the time. But the world doesnt understand creative people.
I get that. A lot of it relies on intrinsic motivation to keep going
Great info. Congrats
Thank you
Social: Group Jelqing
Physical: Gooning
Mental: Edging
Artistic: Release
I think the fifth element (hehe) or category is Charity. Any thing you do that is not for your benefit or your immediate group or family.
The reason this is important is not moral. Its important because it moves your attention out of your own zone of comfort and encourages empathy. You start seeing those cardboard cutouts we call strangers as real people. It also creates connections in your brain between your own world (physical and mental) and the greater world.
Sounds a bit exagerated and pompous i know but it can be just a simple act of generosity you commit to over time.
Do shopping for an older neighbour, get your kids to mow someone's lawn (charity by proxy) do a few hours a month at a church or other charity, put a couple of dollars in someone's cup every week, buy The Big Issue (magazine sold by homeless or ex homeless), sponsor an orphan in a struggling country....whatever.
Free labour or money, it doesnt matter.
Just my opinion of course but it can give such benefits that outweigh the time you spend.
This was great!
Thanks!
I know it might be a silly question, but does playing guitar and singing count as an artistic hobby? I probably should start composing, I still only play already existing songs for now...
Absolutely! Great choices too
1. Social hobby
2. Mental hobby
3. Physical hobby
4. Artistic hobby