In today’s social climate of the past-faced, technology-driven world we now have evolved into, it is quite rare for one to have a hobby like one would have had twenty or thirty years ago. Although things have gotten easier in the grand scheme of things, things have also gotten equally, if not more, stressful mentally and emotionally as far as how much we focus on multiple things at one time instead of what is right in front of us. Having a hobby such as knitting, fishing, writing, or playing an instrument years ago was more common. Coin collecting, especially over the last 50 or 60, was one of those hobbies as well.
Continuing our blog series focusing on young collectors, our goal this time around is to focus more on the benefits alone of having a hobby, regardless of the focus. In our field, it is imperative for young collectors to get into coin collecting. The future of our business, quite frankly, is dependent upon it. But if we focus on our youth a little bit more and the benefits of having a hobby, our future will be better for it.
One of the biggest benefits of de-stressing and focusing on a single hobby is the confidence it builds for an individual. Learning something new and becoming good at something is a major confidence boost. Challenging yourself and succeeding helps you prepare for the world in multiple ways, not just for your hobby. In coin collecting, the more often you practice this philosophy, the better you get at it. Numismatics is a constant challenge of buying, selling, searching, and succeeding. Those who do all of those things, including failing at times, are more likely to not only continue collecting coins but are also more likely to pass it on or spread the word about how rewarding it is.
Another reason to get started in a hobby is to socialize. As mentioned before, our technology-driven world keeps our heads down and our eyes glued to screens. While the invention of the internet has allowed us to connect more with people, it has also decreased our in-person, real-life interactions with the world around us. Having a hobby like coin collecting is a magical way to meet new people and discuss the wonderful world that is numismatics. Coin shows, dealers, and storefronts across the country are just itching to be attended. Individuals flock to these places to make friends and become more involved in the hobby for educational and social purposes.
Everyone needs something to focus on outside of their daily job roles inside the workplace. In fact, it is especially important to de-stress and get your mind off those things you do on a regular basis. Coming home from a long day at work, relaxing, and focusing on something like what coins have to offer is reason enough to pick up. Going to a show for a long weekend away, visiting multiple booths, and seeing different types of coins is something that can be quite enjoyable. It is a completely different aspect of the hobby that will keep you even more interested in what it has to offer.