Burnout sneaks up on us, and once it takes over, it’s really hard to shake. Here’s a simple way to prevent it that only takes 15 minutes a day!

The Anti-Burnout Challenge: A Week of Cozy Hobbies

If you’ve ever felt emotionally drained, creatively stuck, or just plain exhausted, you’re not alone. I’ve been there. I am a chronic workaholic (Type 3 here!), so it's really hard for me to do something that recharges me if it's not like going to make me money or be productive in some way.

But recently, I tried something surprisingly effective: I gave myself permission to rest through cozy hobbies. 

And it was a huge relief. Because who has the time and money to go on vacation in this economy? So, something I can do from the comfort of my living room? Count me in!! 

🌿  Why Cozy Hobbies Actually Work

Research shows that engaging in creative hobbies—like coloring, crafting, or playing games—can significantly reduce cortisol (your stress hormone). In fact, 75% of people who try this see a noticeable drop in stress levels.

And for all those perfectionists reading this, there's a BIG bonus here: 

You don’t have to be “good” at the hobby for it to work. In fact, the less "good" you are, the more relaxing it is. Since you don't need to ruminate about turning this hobby into a side hustle. 😂

🧠  5 Steps to Make Hobbies Work for You

1. Recognize the Benefits

Hobbies aren’t just fun... they’re healing! They lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and even help you live longer.

2. Reconnect with Your Inner Child

Think back to what you loved as a kid. Legos? Video games? Pony bead crafts? That joy still lives in you. And it is so healing to nourish that part of you again.

3. Schedule It Like It Matters

Don’t cram hobbies into your day like an afterthought. Find intentional pockets of time to do them. And it doesn't have to be hours and hours. Just fifteen minutes per day is enough for you to see the benefits. 

4. Get Support When You Need It

Sometimes hobbies aren’t enough. I’ve been through deep burnout, and therapy was what actually helped me get through it. 

5. Silence the Productivity Guilt

Rest isn’t lazy. It’s strategic. Studies show that individuals with creative hobbies are better problem solvers and tend to feel more positive about their work.

🎮  My Week of Cozy Hobbies

Here’s what I tried during my anti-burnout challenge:

• Monday: Art Therapy (no talent required...LOL) 🧑‍🎨 

• Tuesday: Book Club 📚 

• Wednesday: Animal Crossing 🎮 

• Thursday: Coloring 🖍️  

• Friday: Thrifting Adventures 👖 👒 

• Saturday: Crafting with pony beads 🦎 

• Sunday: Reflecting and resetting ☮️

💌  Want to Try It Yourself?

I created a free printable guide to help you start your own anti-burnout challenge. This Free Burnout Guide includes:

• The 9 Signs of Burnout
• Burnout Prevention Tips for All 9 Types

Discover some practical tips to care for yourself according to your specific Enneagram type in this Self-Love blog post.

Or watch my full journey on YouTube below: 🎥

You deserve rest. You deserve joy. You deserve hobbies that heal.
Let’s make cozy hobbies the new self-care!!