9 Hobbies for Working Moms – Because Hiding in the Bathroom Doesn’t Count

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Is having a hobby a luxury that most women can’t afford? Sometimes it seems that way. When someone says “you should get a hobby,” moms everywhere collectively laugh or cry or check their calendars for free time that doesn’t exist. But somewhere between the chaos and the carpool line, it just might be possible to sneak in a little something that’s just for us. So, grab your cold coffee and let’s explore the kind of hobbies that working moms might actually have the time (and sanity) for.

1. Walking or hiking

Walking may not be your new favorite hobby but it may be the only time no one is asking you for help, snacks or passwords. Throwing on a pair of headphones you forgot to charge while strolling through the neighborhood can be a great way to get some fresh air while avoiding the chaos that waits for you inside the office or at home.

Generally speaking, walking gives working moms an immediate break that costs nothing and fits into almost any schedule. You may try this while you are on a lunch break, before the kids wake up or right after work with a stroller in tow. The physical movement releases endorphins that may even help with stress. I’m not saying it will fix all of life’s problems, but it’s a start.

2. Reading

My reading time generally happens between 10:41 and 10:42 every evening. At that time, either I fall asleep or the baby wakes up. It never fails. Still, turning to a book at the end of the day instead of social media usually results in a happier me and a better night of sleep.

If you are a reader, books may just help you transport to a different world without the elaborate planning. Much like walking, the beauty of reading as a hobby lies in its complete flexibility. But, I can’t promise that you won’t be so tired that you read the same page twice on accident.

If reading doesn’t excite you, you can also opt for picking up a book and pretending to read it while in the living room in the middle of the day to get a short, much-needed break.

3. Journaling

Journal? Sure, I journal all the time. Does a grocery list count?

In all seriousness, journaling does help me find a corner of space to process thoughts and emotions. It may help untangle the mental clutter that accumulates from managing multiple roles simultaneously. Plus, research shows that expressive writing reduces stress and improves both mental and physical health outcomes.

You need nothing fancy to start. A simple notebook and pen work perfectly, though some moms prefer apps or guided journals. Another benefit? The time investment can be incredibly small. Five minutes of morning pages while coffee brews or a few lines before bed creates consistency without overwhelming an already busy schedule.

4. Gardening

Personally, I usually feel too busy keeping tiny humans alive to worry about any additional greenery. But, I am sometimes inspired by my mother-in-law. For her, gardening grounds her and allows her to work on something completely outside work deadlines and family obligations. The physical activity provides gentle exercise while the focus required quiets anxiety.

If you want to start small, a few pots of herbs on a sunny windowsill or balcony provide fresh ingredients for cooking plus the satisfaction of nurturing something green.

5. Yoga

If you’re practicing at home, your “mindful flow” might include dodging a few Legos. But, yoga may give working moms a way to reconnect with their bodies after hours spent hunched over keyboards or rushing between obligations. Unlike high-intensity workouts that demand energy that you probably do not have, yoga meets you wherever you are on any given day.

Home practice eliminates commute time and expensive studio memberships. Of course, if you are able to find a nearby studio, there may be even more added benefit and an excuse to get out of the house for a while. And the low barrier to entry makes this hobby remarkably accessible.

6. Baking

While baking may sound a little too close to the necessity of cooking, it may offer a new creative outlet that results in delicious and healthy recipes for you and the family. Unlike cooking dinner under time pressure, baking becomes leisure when you choose to do it for pleasure rather than necessity.

If you’re just getting started, though, be sure to avoid complex recipes that may set you up for frustration.

7. Adult Coloring or Art

Adult coloring books provide working moms with a surprisingly effective stress-relief tool disguised as a simple activity. The repetitive motion of crafting activates different brain regions than those taxed by work and daily parenting.

If you are looking for a type of “kit” to get started, I enjoy these crochet kits or punch needle kits.

8. Etsy-style Crafts

If you’re looking for a hobby and a side hustle, draw some inspiration on Etsy. From candle-making to custom jewelry, Etsy continues to show the world that there’s a market for just about anything. If you’ve ever wanted to handmake custom dog biscuits or something, now might be your time.

9. Golfing

One of these things may not seem like the other. But if the men can do it, why not the moms? Of course, who wouldn’t want a whole afternoon of uninterrupted hours to wander around a perfectly manicured field in silence.

The only “swing” you might have seen recently is the playground, but just imagine spending a Saturday afternoon chasing a tiny ball instead of your children. You could be riding around in a golf cart, listening to music, or enjoying a cold beverage while swinging a new set of clubs. Sounds relaxing, right?

In summary …

Taking time for yourself is not selfish regardless of what guilt tries to tell you. Hobbies can help you find moments of peace, creativity, and joy in the midst of demanding schedules. Remember, you do not need to be perfect at any of them. Simply choose one that resonates, start small, and give yourself permission to do something purely because it makes you feel more like yourself!

Do you have easy hobbies to add to the list? Let us know in the comments.

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