Hobbies usually fall under three activities — collecting, doing or making. As items which can be classified a “hobby” change all the time, the Enrichment Project cannot hope to cover ALL hobbies. Three badges are designed to so you can engage in any hobby you wish with some direction.
This badge program focuses on collecting hobbies.
Steps
1. Determine.
Which type of hobby are you intending on participating in? Does the main focus cover collecting something, doing something or making something?
Many hobbies cross over so that they cover more than one area. One normally stands out from the others. Use this to determine which badge program you need to use. For example, you might like rocks. You may collect them, but ultimately decide to start painting on some of them. The focus of this would be on collecting. Painting them would be doing and would fall under “Craft” in the Enrichment Project.
NOTE: Items under different badge categories such as crafting, camping and science experiments also can count as hobbies.
2. Track.
As you go through the following steps, you’ll want to track the things you learn, the places you learn them, the people who help, organizations associated with your hobby, tips and more. There’s nothing worse than knowing you had information but can’t find it. Explore ways to track your hobby.
3. Collect.
Brainstorm what you think you’re going to do within this hobby. You’re starting with what you already know . . . and it may be more than you realize.
If you’re just looking for a new hobby, check out the supplement for collecting hobbies that goes with this badge program. Alternatively, check out the larger list from the “Hobby Explorer” badge program – SUPP_List Fun_Hobbies_Collect_larajla.pdf
4. Explore.
Document your time exploring and researching what others do within the hobby. You may want to go back to a resource for further clarification later. You may find a resource that’s invaluable that you lose the URL for and can never seem to find again. A book at the library may be removed from the stacks. By documenting the items you’re referencing, you always have a place to start.
You can use the “track” sheet provided as a supplement for this badge program, a spreadsheet, notebook or any other item that works for you.
5. Online.
The amount of information you can find on most topics online is staggering. Narrow your focus with your specific hobby choice. Look for others who are interested in your hobby. This might be specific people, groups, forums or organizations. See if they recommend any sites to make sure you have reliable information.
6. Local.
Is there a local expert, meetup group, club or other resource you can utilize? Having someone (or more than one someone) local gives you more than just a voice. You can actually share samples, see what others have done and more. Be sure to document the contact information for anyone you find.
Collect It!
7. Home.
You’ve collected resources and knowledge. You have people you can ask direct questions of. Now, it’s time to try your new hobby!
We’re going to start at home. Do you have anything within your home that you can use for your hobby? If you started already, what should you keep or discard depending on the new information you’ve acquired.
8. Find.
You may need to find additional materials or tools to pursue your hobby. If so, find places to get what you need so you can participate in your chosen hobby.
9. Experience.
Keep up with your hobby. By experimenting, questioning, discussing and sharing your experiences, you will learn more and go deeper. This will help you enjoy your hobby even more. Document the additional information you gather.
10. Recommend.
Look at your hobby from an outsider’s view. Is this hobby something you would recommend? Are there hurdles they may have to clear to get to a basic level of understanding? Is reliable information readily available? Is it cost prohibitive for a newbie? Are there ways to minimize the negative aspects of this hobby?
11. Continue.
The first 20 hours normally are the ones where you learn the most. After this time, are you still interested in continuing to pursue this hobby? Do you want to change direction or perhaps try something new? Document the reasons for the action you intend to take.
12. Share.
Share your results. You can do this in one of many ways. Here are some to think about.
- Blog posts
- Social media posts
- Forum / group posts
- Start a club / meetup
- Write an article / ebook
- Make a video / podcast
- Create content for others (PLR)
Badge and Supplement Files
Member Level
- EP_Badge List_HobbyCollect_larajla — list of badge items
- EP_Badge Set_HobbyCollect_larajla — list of badge set and related badges
- EP_Supp_List_HobbyCollect_larajla — list of supplements for the badge
- SUPP_BPG_HobbyCollect_2in_12up_larajla — generic badge printable
- SUPP_HobbyCollect_Journal_larajla — badge journal
- SUPP_HobbyCollect_Planner_larajla — badge planner
Supplement Fun
- SUPP_List Fun_Hobbies_Collect_larajla — list of “collector” hobbies
Sites to Explore
- N/A – To be determined by your interest
Get the infographic here > larajla blog post
Get the PDFs of the badge program / supplements here