I started writing my first journal entry when I was in fourth grade. After school, I would hide in my bedroom and reflect on the day, write short stories, and sometimes even draw to accompany my work. Today, as I sit at my desk, typing away on my laptop, journal, and colored pens, I can confidently say that I basically never stop. On a nearby bookshelf is a row of journals from years past, filled with doodles, ideas and to-do lists. I even made a career out of writing, serving as an editor for Camille Styles and a few other online media outlets. But that little girl doodling in her journal is still alive and well, and I would recommend writing as a hobby to anyone.
Fall is right around the corner, and as the temperatures start to get cooler, you may be looking for a cozy indoor activity. Fall is an ideal time to take up writing as a hobby, especially since inspiration comes in abundance as the seasons change. Not to mention the energy that many of us come into September with a back-to-school mentality. If you’ve ever thought about starting your own writing practice, or are just looking for something new to do this fall, read on to learn more about how to start writing as a hobby.
Featured image from our interview with Rotty Brown, written by Michelle Nash.
Why should I start writing?
Some hobbies require an initial investment—you need tools or equipment to get started. But writing is a low-cost or even no-cost creative outlet that you can start at any time. All you need is a pen and paper, or a computer. Not only that, but journaling has great benefits for your mental health.
According to the American Psychological Association, writing can help manage stress and anxiety. Whether you’re journaling about your day, brain-dumping your thoughts, or writing poetry—setting aside time to write can put you on the path to self-discovery. You may even learn to work your way through some tricky emotions to gain new clarity on the other side.
What kind of writing can I try?
Writing as a hobby is exciting because there are so many entry points. You can experiment with different writing styles or stick to just one style. When you start, choose the writing style that you find most interesting. It is a hobby after all! Here are some ideas to get you started.
keep a diary
Perhaps the easiest way to start a writing practice is to keep a journal. You can write anything in your journal, whether you want to jot down thoughts, feelings, lists, dreams, observations, you name it! There’s no right way to journal – just open a page and write down what comes to mind. If you prefer a little more structure, try writing down a few things you’re grateful for in the morning. This isn’t required by any means, but if you like to experiment with colors and doodles, try writing with colored pens or adding flair with markers.
poetry
Maybe you fell in love with poetry in school and want to pick it up again. Or maybe you want to keep your writing exercises short and sweet. Poetry is a fun way to try your hand at writing, especially if you like expressive writing with a little structure. Challenge yourself every morning to write a haiku – a three-line poem with 5-7-5 syllables in each line. You can try rhyming poetry, or ditch the structure and try free verse. have fun!
novel
The sky is the limit for novel writing. If you have new worlds, characters, and stories in your head, put them on paper. Fiction writing can range from short stories, novellas, novels, and even fan fiction, or writing based on existing stories and characters. When writing, let your imagination run wild and put judgment aside.
creative nonfiction
My personal favorite form of creative nonfiction is memoir or personal essay writing. It takes real events or experiences and incorporates storytelling techniques and structures to create engaging and impactful stories. The original journal entry can be transformed and edited through the use of literary techniques to become a personal essay or a chapter in a memoir. The essay is deeply personal, and while journaling is usually just for you, creative nonfiction can be shared with readers.
How do I get started?
Like any hobby, you have to make time for it. Once you know what kind of writing you want to try, put it on your calendar. Decide whether you will type or handwrite, and when. Maybe you carve out some time on the weekends, or sit down and write after the kids are in school. Establishing a routine will help you stick to it, and setting the scene will help you commit to it. Fall is a cozy season, so you might as well soak up the fall vibes!
writing resources
Writing as a hobby can present challenges, such as knowing where to get inspiration, not sure what to do when you feel stuck, or just managing any self-doubt that may arise. Here are some free writing resources that can help.
Journal prompts
If you’re not sure what to write about, you can find tons of journaling prompts on Camille Styles. Be sure to check out these inspiring tips to start your day and tips to help you reset for fall.
Although writing is primarily an individual activity, joining a writing group in a community can be helpful. One place to start is your local library. I know mine has writing groups and monthly poetry gatherings. There are also some digital communities to check out. Substack is a great platform for readers and writers alike, and author Jami Attenberg hosts several free writing challenges each year.
stay inspired
Every writer has their own way of staying energized and inspired. My activities include reading, walking, and breaking out of routine. Go somewhere new, even if it’s just around the corner – inspiration is everywhere! Sometimes you just need to change your environment. Reading is also a great way to stay inspired, and there are plenty of new releases waiting for you to peruse.
Writing as a hobby has many benefits. It’s a fun and stress-free way to get your ideas down on paper (or screen). Especially in fall, a season for creativity and introspection, you may discover the joy of putting pen to paper. Happy writing!
