Member-only story
In Pursuit of Useless Skills
A defense of wasting time.
When I was little, my mother was constantly telling me that I was unfocused. Not when it came to school, I did just fine there. I could devour books for days on end, but when it came to trying new hobbies, anything was game.
I dabbled in many things.
I played seven instruments — but none of them well. (Bassoon was my mother’s personal favorite — she said it sounded like a cow dying).
I wrote poetry — none of it was good (but that didn’t stop me from sharing it with everyone).
I learned how to quilt over a summer break in high school — it was never completed, but if the end of the world comes and someone needs a blanket sewn together — I know how to.
Over the years, I have tried juggling, bowling, ax throwing, ballroom dancing, improv comedy, extreme memorizing, pickleball.
There is something to be said for mastering a skill, but that’s never been my goal.
I’ve found there are many benefits to being open to new experiences.
You may find something you really love.
Not every new hobby is going to be a winner. You might hate it, but at least you know.
