Benefits of hobbies and personal projects
The long, cold winter months have encouraged us to pursue hobbies and personal projects. These activities offer an excellent escape when work pressures or the monotony of daily routines become overwhelming.
In South Africa, Charl always had a house or garden renovation project that filled the weekends with positive energy. Now, in Switzerland, where physical space is limited, he has turned to Lego. His office is already filled with various building projects, sparking interesting conversations.
What is a personal project?
A personal project focuses on satisfying your curiosity and deepening your understanding of a topic rather than solely on the final output. They emphasise exploration and enjoyment rather than the pursuit of fame. This approach allows experimentation, creativity, and growth without the pressure to impress anyone.
A personal project can be anything that allows you to express your ideas or interests, and the time it takes can vary greatly depending on the project. Some projects may even span several years!
Zander’s Grade 10 personal project
At Zander’s school, students had to complete a personal project in their Grade 10 year. They could choose any topic that aligned with their interests. The goal was to learn more about a subject that intrigued them. They had to deliver a product that demonstrated their newfound knowledge. Students had to maintain a detailed journal of their planning and progress. A report at the end of the project had to serve as a basis for their assessment.
Zander created a braille keyboard to enable blind individuals to use computers. He had to learn about braille and how to design the keyboard buttons on a software application before printing them on a 3D printer at school. This project expanded his technical skills and taught him the importance of project planning and the value of input from others.
There were challenges along the way, but the satisfaction on his face when he finally demonstrated the working keyboard made all the time and effort worthwhile.
My projects
My mom used to make our clothes and passed on some of her sewing skills to me as a young girl. I still remember my frustration and occasional outbursts when she made me unstitch incorrect seams. There was a valuable life lesson in that experience: the sooner you fix a mistake or solve a problem, the less impact it will have.
My projects often included designing and producing clothes during school and university vacations. I tackled making prince and soldier outfits for my young sons’ Cinderella school performance. It required long nights and hard work, especially when I had to unstitch many seams. Despite the challenges, it was immensely satisfying to create something from scratch.
Here in Switzerland, I started writing as a form of therapy. My first personal project was collecting my writings about our experiences in Switzerland into a blog. I had to learn a lot about the technology and processes. The project still brings me joy and is a valuable platform to stay in touch with friends and family.
It also allows me to pursue my passion for photography. After five years, I published my writings in an e-book with photos on Amazon. This initiative has brought new challenges and learning experiences. With personal projects, the true satisfaction lies in the creation process rather than the outcome.
Family members’ projects
My dad had a passion for cars and mechanics. He once bought an old car and renovated it mechanically and visually. My sister and I often helped with his projects, enjoying the progress as it unfolded. As toddlers, he built us a swing as one of his projects, which still stands in my mom’s garden. Although he died before meeting his grandchildren, they could enjoy the benefits of his handiwork.
My son Christo made garden furniture from wooden pallets while still in school. His technical drawing class helped him in the process. For his 18th birthday celebration, he arranged the furniture in our garden, and the lights strung in the trees created a festive atmosphere.
As a student, my son Jacques helped entrepreneurs with their marketing by taking photos and creating social media videos. He made good friends and learned a lot in the process. His skills became valuable when he started his business, a bakery with the name The Cinnamon Club.
Benefits of hobbies and personal projects
I have benefited from taking on hobbies and personal projects. I have learned new things and discovered more about myself. It provided a meaningful focus that enhanced my mental well-being during the European winter months. Often, the skills I gained became valuable in future situations. I have made new friends by connecting with others sharing similar interests and passions.
Completing a project, especially where I stretch myself or collaborate with others, brings immense satisfaction and boosts my confidence. The sense of achievement when I reach my desired outcome is rewarding.
I would love to hear about any hobbies or projects that have brought you joy and fulfilment.
Regards
Emsia