The Chronic Learner
As someone who's always had an insatiable curiosity, I've come to realize that being a lifelong learner and hobby enthusiast is more than just a trait—it's a way of life. Over the years, I’ve explored a variety of interests, from deep spiritual practices like forest therapy guide training and Reiki to more creative and hands-on hobbies. Each new pursuit has brought its own challenges, joys, and even occasional failures, all of which have added to my personal growth and sense of fulfillment.
The Power of Curiosity
For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a desire to explore, understand, and experience new things. I’ve never been content with sticking to one activity or mastering a single craft. Instead, I thrive on the excitement that comes with learning something new. While some might see this approach as being unfocused, I’ve embraced it as a constant source of discovery and renewal.
One of the most transformative experiences in my journey was undertaking forest therapy guide training. It was more than just learning about nature—it was about developing a deep connection with the natural world and facilitating that same connection for others. Forest therapy taught me how nature can heal and rejuvenate, not just physically but mentally and emotionally as well. Guiding others through mindful walks in the forest allowed me to appreciate how nature helps people reduce stress, find clarity, and reconnect with themselves.
Another chapter in my learning journey was my Reiki training. Reiki opened up a world of energy healing that I hadn’t known much about before. The training wasn’t just about learning how to channel healing energy for others; it was also about understanding my own emotional and mental energy and how to find balance in times of stress or uncertainty. Reiki became another powerful tool for self-healing, as well as a way to support those around me.
In addition to these deeper spiritual practices, I find immense joy in my more hands-on hobbies. Working with plants, for example, brings a sense of calm and nurturing. Whether I’m tending to indoor plants or gardening outdoors, it’s a slow, meditative process that allows me to witness growth over time. There’s something deeply satisfying about caring for a living thing and watching it thrive. Painting, on the other hand, allows me to express creativity in a completely different way. I love experimenting with colors and textures, often letting the process guide me rather than sticking to a rigid plan. It’s a release, where the outcome is less important than the experience of creating. And of course, listening to music has always been a way for me to unwind and recharge. Music has the ability to shift my mood, spark creativity, or provide a comforting backdrop to whatever I’m doing.
Failing, and Learning to Be Okay With It
As much as I love learning and exploring new hobbies, I’ve also had my fair share of failures along the way—and I’ve learned that it’s okay. Not every pursuit has been a success, and I’ve discovered that I’m not always good at everything I try. For example, Brayden once tried to teach me guitar I quickly realized that my passion for listening to music didn’t quite translate into making music. My attempts were clumsy, and the process didn’t come naturally to me like it did with other hobbies.
At first, it was frustrating. I thought that if I just worked harder, I could master it like I had with other pursuits. But over time, I learned that not every experience needs to be about success. Sometimes, trying something new and realizing it’s not your strength is just as valuable as mastering it. It helps clarify what truly resonates with you and what doesn’t. It’s part of the process of discovery that makes being a chronic learner so rewarding. The beauty of having multiple hobbies is that I don’t feel pressured to be perfect at any of them. I can simply enjoy the journey, knowing that it’s okay to let go of certain pursuits if they don’t fit. The important thing is the joy and fulfillment that come from trying, learning, and sometimes failing.
One of the best things about being a chronic learner is that it keeps my mind open and flexible. Constantly engaging in new activities and skills prevents stagnation, and I often find connections between my hobbies, spiritual practices, and daily life that help me approach challenges with fresh perspectives. This endless curiosity fosters personal growth. Learning something new regularly pushes me out of my comfort zone and into a space of self-discovery. With each new skill or experience, I learn more about myself—my strengths, weaknesses, and what truly brings me joy.
Being a chronic learner and hobbyist is more than just a collection of activities—it’s a lifestyle. The joy of learning comes not from perfecting any one thing, but from the process itself. Whether it’s caring for plants, experimenting with clay, painting, or practicing Reiki, every pursuit has enriched my life in its own way.
So, if you find yourself drawn to endless hobbies and pursuits, embrace it. It’s not about being perfect or mastering one thing—it’s about the joy of exploration, the freedom to fail, and the thrill of discovery. In the end, it’s the journey that matters most.
Embrace the Journey Soul Traveller
Elyssa