I’ve been feeling bored more often than I’d like to admit these days. The hours seem to fly by, and by nighttime, I feel like I’ve wasted the day and done nothing productive. I can probably attribute this to my usual “free time” routine—cycling between Netflix, mindless snacking, and opening and closing TikTok more times than I can count. It’s a temporary distraction, and each scroll leaves me more drained than before—and yet I can’t stop! And to make things worse? Those feelings of boredom are still there afterward.
All that changed when I stumbled across a TikTok about a “hobby menu.” Since I had heard of a dopamine menu before, I was immediately intrigued. The idea is simple: instead of defaulting to your phone the second boredom hits, you pick something to do from your hobby list. Once I started writing down things that I used to enjoy or always wanted to try, I realized how many of those activities and opportunities I’d traded away for another round of doom-scrolling (talk about a wake-up call).
Now, instead of feeling like time is slipping through my fingers, I’m filling it with things that actually keep me entertained and satisfied. So, if you’ve been stuck in that same endless scroll cycle, a hobby menu might be exactly what you need, too. Here’s everything you need to know about creating your own hobby menu—and a few ideas to help you get started.
As mentioned above, a hobby menu is pretty straightforward: a list of different activities and hobbies to try when you have some free time. Your list might include things like sketching, baking, learning a few phrases in a new language, or finally reading that book that’s been sitting on your shelf for months. The best part about a hobby menu is that it doesn’t need to be all that structured or elaborate. It’s just a list full of fun and creative activities you can try, even on those days when you only have a few minutes of free time. You don’t have to do everything at once—you just pick what fits your mood or bandwidth for the day.
If you’ve heard of a dopamine menu, the setup for a hobby menu is similar—but with some key differences. While a dopamine menu revolves around wellness and mental health, the hobby version is more casual and focuses on beating boredom and filling your free time with fun activities, instead of just doom-scrolling or binge-watching a show. But the goal is the same: add a little more joy and meaning to your days.
Your hobby menu can be totally catered to what works best for you. That might mean a physical piece of paper decorated with markers and stickers or a digital version in your Notes app or made with Canva (I recommend using a restaurant menu template, which makes it even easier). To follow the menu theme, create a section for each “course,” then add your list of ideas below. The courses should look a little something like this:
Appetizers
The appetizers section of a hobby menu contains quick and easy ways to reset or take a break. Since they’re not time-consuming, these activities can be enjoyed throughout the day whenever you are bored and have some time to spare. They’re perfect for when you need to fill 5-10 minutes (and don’t just want to scroll on your phone). Think: activities like journaling, reading a few pages of a book, or a quick doodling session.
Entrees
The main entrees section should consist of longer activities that require more time and commitment—but the results of these activities are much more fulfilling. This could include things like painting, completing a craft project, baking, or cooking. “Entree” activities should last around 30-60 minutes and are great for when you want to do something more hands-on.
Sides
The “sides” of a hobby menu are activities that are ideal to pair with other hobbies. This could include things like listening to a podcast or audiobook while doing chores, or picking up a needlework project while watching TV.
Desserts
Desserts are the sweet treats that we love—but need in moderation. They’re great for unwinding, reflecting, and recharging. This section might include things like watching movies or TV shows, playing video games, or going out for drinks with friends.
Specials
Specials are the hobbies and activities that aren’t on your typical schedule—they might cost more and involve extra prep (like leaving the house). This includes things like going on trips, seeing shows or concerts, or attending in-person classes.
Appetizers
- Become a pro at making your morning coffee or tea (latte art, anyone?)
- Jot down a few things you’re grateful for in a journal
- Take a language learning app lesson—you can do as many lessons as you have time for
- Water and take care of house plants
- Work through a coloring book (even for just a few minutes a day!)
- Read a chapter or two of a book
Entrees
- Have an art session—paint, draw, or start a scrapbook
- Try a beginner yoga or pilates video
- Learn a new recipe or bake something nostalgic from your childhood
- Experiment with photography—focus on colors, light, or textures
- Start a DIY project, like up-cycling furniture or creating a seasonal craft
- Pick up a skill-based hobby—knitting, pottery, woodworking, or calligraphy
- Do your makeup—follow a tutorial or try out a fun new look
Sides
- Make a playlist that fits a specific mood (e.g., “songs that make you feel like the main character”)
- Listen to an audiobook while you walk
- Follow a guided meditation during your morning or nighttime routine
- Watch a documentary or educational YouTube video on a random topic
- Listen to a podcast outside your comfort zone (history, design, philosophy, etc.)
Desserts
- Have a movie night
- Play video games
- Bake and enjoy your favorite treat
- Practice your mixology skills with at-home cocktails
Specials
- Take a dance class
- Go thrift shopping
- Do a full set of DIY nails
- Go to the zoo
- Enjoy a spa day (massage, facial, etc.)
- Plan a weekend trip
Jenna Piotrowicz, Editorial Assistant
Jenna began working as an Editorial Assistant for The Everygirl in 2024. With her eye for detail, she assists the team with content creation, sourcing products and images, and works behind the scenes to support The Everygirl in uploading and updating content.
Feature graphic images credited to: L B | Dupe, Melissa Romee | Dupe, Cora Pursley | Dupe, Olivia Havener | Dupe, Ula Kaniuch | Dupe, Jade Rideout | Dupe
