Dabbling Is A Great Beginning
Take Pen to Paper: Edition 183
Hi, Friends!
When was the last time you started a new hobby?
You might have had several starts (and stops) in your life. I have.
I think one of the most exciting parts of a new hobby is getting started. The first big step is investing in the tools needed - new shoes and workout clothes for exercise, yarn for crocheting, and a tool kit for repairing antique frames. The list of hobbies is endless, and so are the tools to start.
I tend to be very enthusiastic about buying what I think I will need, and a little less so about actually starting the hobby.
For example, I’ve been taking watercolor classes for about three years. I enjoyed the classes and decided I could do this at home. I didn’t need to make a huge investment in tools to take this up as a hobby. I received a small set of watercolors for Christmas 2024 (yes, that long ago). They have been unused. I’m not sure exactly what held me back. However, I suspect that part of the reason is not having a picture in mind to paint.
I’ve recently realized I need to add a step to my quest to become a hobbyist in any area.
Thanks to a doodling challenge I took up, I discovered I needed to dabble.
On Day 3 of the challenge, I was to make a watercolor blob, squiggle, or splotch on the paper. Call it whatever you want. Then, draw and make each spot into a creature. Be imaginative!
Dabbling with my watercolors to make six creatures made me think I could do so much more. I just needed to take action. From my classes, I know that not every picture will be what I want it to be, but that is what practice is all about. Don’t hobbyists take on new challenges as they improve in their skills?
In my case, dabbling convinced me to take my watercolors on vacation and to enhance sketches of the day’s sights with a little color. Now I have no excuse holding me back from using my watercolors more often.
So what are you waiting for?
Put on that new workout gear and walk around the house. Break out the yarn and crochet a row. Take that antique frame apart to see what needs to be done.
If you are starting a new hobby, there is always a first step. Dabbling is a fun way to start.
What tools do you need to start dabbling with?
7 Days, 7 Thoughts on Gratitude and Good:
I am grateful to experienced hobbyists for sharing how they got started.
Hobbies are healthy for you. Check out the benefits here.🧠
It’s a good thing to ask someone with experience how they got started. People enjoy sharing their knowledge and may have an idea for your first step. 💡
This article explains how your comfort level with a new activity may keep you from starting. 🛑
Dabbling can be a good way to restart a forgotten hobby.
It’s a good thing to ask a friend to join you in your dabbling experience so you can support each other. 🧑🤝🧑
Keep an open mind when you dabble. You never know where it will lead you.
Thank you for reading. What would you like to dabble in?
Until next time,
💙
Susan
Has dabbling ever led you to a hobby? Leave a comment and let me know.
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