Go Hobby Hunting This Summer

On the next Strategies & Tactics Live, join Mark Mohammadpour, APR, Fellow PRSA, for a conversation about building resilience, protecting your well-being, and creating sustainable habits that support long-term success. Watch on LinkedIn, June 24, 1 p.m. ET.

While studying at Reed College in Portland, Oregon, Apple founder Steve Jobs took a calligraphy class. Jobs’ experience in that class inspired his emphasis on typography and design on the first Macintosh. Very different from computer hardware and software design, yet integral to his life’s work.

To my PR friends, Happy Summer! As you’re getting ready for vacation, spending precious moments with family, and enjoying the sunshine, it’s also a great time to prioritize your well-being.

This includes forgetting about public relations for a few minutes!

I realize writing this in a PR publication might get me extricated from the profession, but it’s true. I need you to literally touch grass and/or find a hobby this summer.

We need hobbies.

Hobbies are critical for our mental health. A "2025 scoping review published in Issues in Mental Health Nursing (Cleary et al.) analyzed 12 studies and found three consistent benefits of hobbies: reduced depression, anxiety, and stress; improved quality of life and well-being; and stronger social interaction and support.”

Concerned that hobbies won’t help you grow as a PR and comms professional? I beg to differ. Whether you’re learning skills transferable to your job or that spark ideas for pivots to new jobs, new service offerings for your consultancy or agency, or using the time to connect with others to build relationships, what you learn will go forward with you for years to come.

Start small.

Here are a few tips as you look to start a new hobby.

Don’t overcomplicate the process of starting hobbies. The point of starting a hobby is to learn something that will benefit your life in some way. Start small and if you like it, keep going. If not, go back to your list!

Determine whether you want to pursue a hobby on your own or use it as a practical way to meet people in person. In an era in which we’re craving connection with those around us, this is a great time to reach out to fellow PRSA Chapter members! Ask fellow members if there’s interest in meeting for a nature walk, participating in a cooking class, or playing pickleball!

For inspiration, check out the course catalog for your local community center or college. From gardening and photography to dancing and swimming, there are a wide variety of options for you to help get your mind away from briefing documents and press releases.

Want something more creative? Explore the arts! A “Drexel University study found that just 45 minutes of creative activity — using markers, clay, or collage materials — boosted participants’ self-efficacy, or their confidence in themselves and their ability to complete tasks.”

What hobby will you take on this summer? Please let me know.

As for me, I’m committing to spending this summer exploring the lush nature of urban Portland through early morning hikes with my 6-year-old labradoodle, Molly!