Spending time pursuing hobbies can be extremely satisfying and even therapeutic. Entrepreneurs are busy breed and often their hobbies can fall by the way-side in the pursuit of running their business. However, hobbies can actually be that special ingredient that can make work more fulfilling and imbue you with renewed vigour.

In the words of author Steven Johnson, “Legendary innovators like Franklin, Snow, and Darwin all possess some common intellectual qualities—a certain quickness of mind, unbounded curiosity—but they also share one other defining attribute. They have a lot of hobbies.” 

Here are 5 reasons why entrepreneurs and business owners should pursue their hobbies.

1. A break with a sense of purpose
   Most entrepreneurs and professionals like to feel productive even in their leisure time. Hobbies are the perfect way to take a break with a sense of purpose. It is a fun and relaxing way to unwind and yet create value.
   
   
2. Positive stress
   Hobbies are the best way to promote eustress – a positive reaction to stress that generates within us a desire to achieve and overcome a challenge. When you are doing something you enjoy it creates a positive feeling and an excitement for the task at hand. Hobbies are also an outlet for negative stress and prevent burn-out.
   
   
3. T.E.A.M. = Together Everyone Achieves More
   Playing music or a sport or indulging in an adventure sport helps foster and appreciate the spirit of teamwork. Team sports like cricket and football help you realise that more than individual brilliance, it is team effort that shines through. Group adventure sports like mountain climbing that are all about adapting to difficult situations, relying and helping team-mates and savouring the thrill of scaling the summit.
   
   
4. Challenge yourself
   Hobbies offer a break in the work routine and are a means to challenge oneself anew. A hobby can thus fill you with renewed vigour and vitality, and provide valuable learnings.
   
   
5. Health benefits
   Research has shown engaging in hobbies in one’s free time were associated with lower blood pressure, total cortisol, waist circumference, and body mass index. Hobbies are also good for one’s emotional and psychological well-being. As a busy entrepreneur, you need to find precious moments to stay healthy, and pursuing a hobby can provide the perfect opportunity for this.
   
   

Sukant Ratnakar says in Open The Windows: To the World around You , “Hobbies are like flowers on plant. They make the plant look beautiful and feel proud.” 

How do your hobbies positively influence your life as an entrepreneur? Share with us some of your favourite hobbies.