Hobbies

Hobbies are awesome, and in my particular line of work more often than not our hobby is also our career, or if not this, then something computer related (personally, Im an avid gamer).

Im still not sure if this is a good thing, as while it does give us a passion for our work, and a drive to investigate deeper and further, sometimes things can go out of balance. For instance, you spend 8 hours of your day in front of a computer for work. You then get home and spend several more hours (depending on the level of your passion) investigating/reading/mucking around with other areas (or gaming). So you can get to a point where you spend about 15 hours of your day in front of a computer. This brings to the fore all sorts of medical issues over time; RSI, back pain, eye strain and headaches.

The reason for this post is to ask you this question: When was the last time you actually spent time doing something not computer related? Recently, Ive been making an effort for a better balance in my life for my computer/non-computer activities, and oddly enough Im enjoying it. I feel happier overall, and to be honest a bit more switched on when I do work. Ive started reading (non-technical) books again, and Im even making an effort with the garden.

The problem with being a tech-inclined person, I think, is our tendency for our hobby to become an obsession (although I suppose the same can be said of any hobby or interest). There is a crazy amount of information out there, and our passion wants us to know it all. Im starting to realise not only is this not realistic, but unhealthy to boot. Theres nothing wrong with being passionate about what you do, but you need to be careful how far your passions can take you, and develop the ability to be able to pull back before you fall down the precipice of obsession.

Its not a fun place.