3 hobbies

there's a framework floating around the internet that says everyone needs three hobbies. it sounds like another oversimplified life hack, except this one actually holds up under scrutiny.

hobby one: something that makes you money. hobby two: something that keeps you in shape. hobby three: something that lets you be creative.

that's it. three categories. if you're covered in all three, you're building a life that works.

why three and not one

most people have one dominant hobby — maybe it's their career, maybe it's a sport, maybe it's a creative outlet. the problem with one is that when it goes sideways (and it will), your entire identity collapses. you get injured and can't run? existential crisis. you lose the job you loved? total meltdown.

three hobbies create a tripod. when one leg wobbles, the other two keep you standing. it's emotional diversification.

the money hobby

this doesn't have to be a "side hustle." it can be investing, freelancing, building something, or developing a skill that increases your earning power. the point is having an active relationship with creating economic value outside of your day job.

when your only source of income is your employer, they own you more than you'd like to admit. a money hobby gives you options. options give you freedom. freedom gives you the ability to not give a fuck.

the fitness hobby

not "going to the gym because you should." an actual activity you enjoy that keeps your body functional. climbing, swimming, martial arts, hiking, dancing — whatever gets you moving without feeling like punishment.

the creative hobby

humans need to make things. writing, music, painting, cooking, woodworking, photography — the medium doesn't matter. what matters is the act of creating something that didn't exist before you made it. this feeds a part of your brain that consumption never can.

the audit

look at your life right now. which of the three are you missing? that's where your attention goes next. you don't need to master anything. you need to start something. pick the empty category and fill it this week.

if this resonated, share it with someone who needs to hear it.