In this fast paced way of life, the grind of an everyday existence can really get to us and you can soon find yourself in a rut doing the same mind numbing things over and over again. Work is inevitable and there are of course some commitments that you cannot avoid, however in-between these times perhaps you want to use your spare time in a creative and possibly educational way. Having a hobby is a good way of wind down and relax but learning something new could be better.
1. Learn a new language. If English is your first language why not give a foreign language a go. Try learning, French or Italian or if you are really adventurous how about Chinese or Latin. If you are not interesting a new language how about learning sign language of Auslan.
2. Learn to knit, crochet or sew. This one is pretty easy, all but it takes patience. Someone you know might be able to teach you or you can teach yourself. Start with something easy and you will some progress to the more difficult patterns.
3. Learn to dance. Why not sign up for some dance lessons at a studio or even your local community centre. There are a number of styles to choose from, perhaps you would like to try modern dance, jazz dance or ballroom dancing.
4. Learn to Cook. You can teach yourself or get someone you know to show you the basics. If you are more daring maybe sign up for a Le Cordon Bleu class.
5. Learn to play a musical instrument. This one is not for everyone but with lots of time and patience you can master it.
6. Learn to paint or draw. You can do classes for this or take a course. You can even teach yourself, there are books and websites to assist you, with plenty of tips and hints.
7. Learn how to swim. If you can't swim already then perhaps you would like to learn. Get a friend to teach you or most leisure centres offer swimming lessons. It's fun and easy and a great way to keep fit.
8. Learn Photography. If you own a camera you can take photos and there are quite a few photography courses around. It's easy and fun, there are plenty of books and websites to offer you hints and tips on photography. Try taking photos of different interesting things, places or people.
9. Learn how to Ice Skate. There are a couple of skating rinks in the Perth area and they offer lessons or perhaps you know someone who can teach you to skate.
10. Learn How to Scrapbook. Scrapbooking is a very popular pass time and it is pretty easy. You can teach yourself or get s friend to show you how. There are also plenty of books or websites on the subject that can offer you tips and hints.
If you don't really want to learn something new but still want to do something different just to get out of the house how about joining a community social group. The City of Fremantle runs these sorts of courses, as do plenty of other councils, just check out the website of your local council for details.
Become a volunteer, places are absolutely crying out for volunteer help. You can volunteer at your local school, hospital, Sea Rescue, Emergency Services or the Red Cross and so many more. Check the website of your local council for details.
There are also 100's of TAFE courses available; floristry, first aid, wedding planning or writing, so you have loads to choose from. For some courses you do need prior experience or certificates to get in, but for most of them you don't.
Learning something new is fun and there are lots of courses or classes available. Check out your local community or council website and see what is on offer. Learn a new skill or improve ones that you already have, who knows where it will lead.
