Discovering Late-life Hobbies: Learning Music, Exploring Nature, and Flight Spotting

Everyone has hobbies that they wish they had started earlier in life. Whether it's learning a new skill, exploring nature, or discovering a fun pastime, these activities can enrich our lives in countless ways. In this article, we will explore the story of someone who has recently taken up several hobbies, including playing the keyboard, working on a backyard project, practicing Qigong, knife collecting, and flight spotting. These hobbies have brought immense joy and a sense of fulfillment, proving that it's never too late to start something new.

Learning to Play the Keyboard

At the age of 58, a thirst for music led this individual to invest in a keyboard workstation, the Korg Kronos, and the piano teaching website, Playground Sessions. Initially, he had played the guitar from a young age but never took formal lessons. Learning to play by ear taught him valuable skills, but he now regrets not having taken lessons earlier. The keyboard brought back his love for creating music and allowed him to explore new musical genres and techniques. He wishes he had discovered this hobby much sooner, as it has become a significant part of his life.

Working on the Backyard

While not necessarily a traditional hobby, working on the backyard has proven to be both rewarding and functional. This individual takes pride in transforming outdoor spaces. Whether it's planting new flowers, setting up a garden, or creating a paving design, these projects not only enhance the aesthetics of the property but also provide a sense of accomplishment. Gardening and backyard renovation can be therapeutic and enjoyable, making them a worthwhile addition to one's hobbies.

Practicing Qigong

Recently, this person started studying and practicing Qigong breathing techniques, and despite not considering it a hobby, he has found it to be immensely beneficial. Qigong involves a series of exercises and meditations that focus on breathing control, relaxation, and movement. It has helped him improve his physical health, improve flexibility, and promote mental well-being. The practice requires focus and patience, but the benefits are significant. It is a silent but powerful way to rejuvenate oneself, making it a valuable tool in his late-life pursuits.

Knife Collecting

Another hobby that has brought joy is knife collecting. This activity involves collecting different blade shapes, designs, and attributes of folding and locking mechanisms. Alongside collecting, he has also expanded his knowledge about different steels used in knife-making and their practical applications. He has learned how to sharpen various types of knives used in cooking, ensuring they stay razor sharp. The satisfaction of maintaining cherished items and passing down a skill is a unique pleasure that knife collecting offers.

Daily Reflections and Progress Tracking

Starting in April of the previous year, this individual began documenting his daily activities. Reflecting on these daily logs has not only given him a sense of fulfillment but also helped him track his progress. The act of writing down what he has done each day has made him feel more productive and less likely to waste time. Seeing the records of his progress inspires him to continue striving for improvement and gives him a clear indication of his growth.

Flight Spotting from the Garden

One of the most exciting and recent hobbies is flight spotting from one’s garden. With the help of the app Flightradar24, this individual can observe airplanes flying overhead and gather detailed information about them. The app allows him to identify the specific flights, the origin and destination, the aircraft type, and other details such as altitude and speed. Even though he only discovered this hobby a few months ago, it has already provided him with immense enjoyment and education. The app's real-time flight tracking has transformed ordinary planes into unique and identifiable entities, providing a front-row view of the aviation world.

Although it might be tempting to think that discovering new hobbies always has to happen at a younger age, this person's story proves that it's never too late to find new passions. Whether it's the joy of playing the keyboard, the satisfaction of working on a backyard project, the tranquility of practicing Qigong, the thrill of knife collecting, or the excitement of flight spotting, these hobbies have enriched his life in numerous ways. By embracing these new interests, he has not only found fulfillment but also gained new perspectives and life experiences.