Things & hobbies for anyone to delight in, even as an adult or male
"1 Corinthians 13:11 -> When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me." This has it all wrong as far as I am concerned, seems like terrible advice.
- Plushies. You are never too old to have a plushy. Even animals like plushies. They look nice, likely will put a smile on someone's face when they see yours, and one might even help you sleep.
These days there are all kinds of unusual and also crocheted, fun, awesome plushies. Perhaps you find one that you truly like or which reminds you of something else you enjoy.
Games. Whether D&D, board games, computer games or any other game type that rocks your world, as long as it does not interfere in a negative way with your adult life, have fun! Ideally with others. Play and imagination is crucial for adults, not just for children.
Colours. Guys tend to get practical about clothes and colours. Nothing wrong with that, but there is something to be said for also taking simple joy in varied colours. Or textures, or patterns. Women seem to do this a more often, on average.
Podcasts, audiobooks and of course music. Try to listen to varied things and often, especially when doing rote (cleaning) tasks or commuting, having something nice on can make those tasks or a wait downright pleasant. There is a whole slew of worlds out there. Free. It is not: "cheating" at reading. It is just a different way to enjoy, to learn, and to be entertained. If you can also read, so much the better. Either, or. Better one than none, and one isn't better than the other.
Unusual or "childish" hobbies, especially those that engage the brain, acquire hand-eye coordination or that foster community and ideally are very affordable. Whether it is: juggling, Yo-Yo, Kendama, Fingerboarding, Ping Pong, Jigsaw puzzles or anything else, never think : "Now that I am 25 (or 55, or 99) years old,.. I shouldn't do that any more,.." BS.
Tinkering, fixing, DIY or any doable project. My mom learned some DIY late in life, she is deep into her 70s, still does quite a bit of it and well. Takes her some time, but she enjoys the process and the independence, and hires help for the physically more demanding tasks. Doing some stuff herself keeps her engaged, entertained and likely healthier.
Fifty other things I have missed and that work for others! Never let people tell you that XYZ is childish or a waste of time. Time you truly enjoy spending is never wasted. If in company or you can share that hobby and joy, even cooler!
I am reminded of a Punk Rock song's lyrics, the song "The Days" by "Mike V and The Rats"
"I discovered skateboarding and punk rock music when I was 14 years old. At that time it seemed like they just went hand-in-hand, I mean... the spirit of both things was about expression, and individuality For the first time in my life I knew who I was, and I knew what I wanted to do with myself. And I knew... I knew there'd be no looking back.
I remember just being so inspired and empowered. And you know what? I still feel that way, the spirit still moves me.
I think it's just about digging a little deeper and asking the right questions.
You are never too old.
I still believe that these are the days These have always been the days."
I still skateboard some here and there. I'd like to start doing it a bit more. It is as easy as thirty or forty years ago? Nope. But even Bam Margera got back to skating after massive struggles. The original Bones Brigade has every injury under the sun, most of them were born in the 60's, they still skate amazing today.
And if I do find doing a certain hobby becomes really hard or impossible for a while, or even permanently, then that just makes it even more important to have many hobbies, to have other ones one can turn to!
I have never experienced that I do any of my favourite activities consistently, every week for years. They come and go. Sometimes by my choice, sometimes due to circumstances. Yet often, they come around again.
All that is likely a good thing. Variety is good, as is making sure you are truly interested or inspired (again).
Professor Dungeon Master said: "Life is too short to not do what you love to do my friends. You will regret the games you don't play.