The cohort of Gen Z is born between 1997 and 2012. It expresses individuality, values, and interests. Being digital natives, Gen Z grew up through technology, social media, and global interconnectedness, for this reason, their hobbies and leisure activities were shaped by the beginning of this new era and passions.
Characteristics of Gen Z
Not only are they digital natives, but they are also characterized by a strong entrepreneurial ethos: valuing creativity, self-expression, and a healthy work-life balance. They may also tend to value experiences over material possessions; perhaps more led by a quest for meaning and purpose.
Common Misconceptions About Gen Z
Another commonly held misconception about Gen Z is that they care only for technology and social media. While technology does play an important part in their lives, they are equally likely to enjoy more old-fashioned pastimes such as reading, playing sports or simply spending time outdoors.
Another misconception is that they are lazy. This generation is highly driven and very inspired, being connected with the quest for meaning. They are more likely to prioritize work-life balance by looking for careers aligned with their values.
Why Are Hobbies Important for Gen Z?
As we’re deep into the year 2024, you probably know which resolutions you’ll remain faithful to and which ones just aren’t feasible this year. If one of those was to get more creative or pick up a new hobby, you are in luck! we’ve rounded up everything you’ll need to start your newest favorite hobby.
How will this generation leave its marks on the world? Here are seven trends among Gen Z that you want to look out for in 2024 and beyond.
Top 8 Popular Hobbies of Gen Z
Here are some of the popular hobbies of this generation as per experts
1. Esports
That is how Gen Z has encountered its gaming age-through the evolution across many platforms-a console, a mobile, or an esports platform. This is gradually making it acceptable as a main hobby for this generation.
Srinand Balasundaram, a twenty-one-year-old graduate states, “Gaming became a lifeline for many during the pandemic as it helped keep my friends and, of course, me connected through the screen. With multifarious genres and engaging gameplay, there is never a boring moment when gaming; I find it thrilling.”
2. Digital content creation
They are doing vlogs, writing stories, and making music-savvy Gen Z. That has allowed room for even more digital content to flower and for self-expression. According to Raahi Doshi, a content creator, “Content creation allows me to express my individuality, connect with like-minded people, and showcase my talent.”
Platforms like Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat, and so on have allowed a creative outlet for Gen Z. “To me, creating content online feels safe. The platforms allow people to express themselves, connect, and build a brand out there. Accessibility is easy for everyone to reach and share their talents and passions with a large audience. This makes content creation, for Gen Z, an inclusive and popular hobby,” Ayesha Khan says, a twenty-year-old commerce student.
3. Self-care and fitness
Gen Z is increasingly drawn to those hobbies that are conducive to emotional and physical well-being. Yoga, gym workouts, and journaling have become powerful trends among members of this generation. They offer some ways of si escaping the hustle of the digital life and helping me to focus on self-evolution and self-care.
4. Painting
Painting is a classic hobby you’ve probably engaged in since you were a kid, but if you’re not too artistic and lack the steady hands for paint by numbers, Walker says diamond painting is a newer craft that rides its way to the top.
“It’s like paint by numbers except you’re putting colored dots on a pattern to create this beautiful piece,” she suggests.
5. Aquatecture
Was one of the only hobbies that was wholly new to us, and it might just be new to you as well. Stanback mentions that “aquatecture” is expected to be on the rise this year, and this is all about creatively beautifying the homes of your aquatic companions.
“Gen X and millennials will become underwater gardeners through building and merging these outlandish aquarium designs into their homes. It’s a home decor trend, but it’s heavily steeped in experience-building,” she says.
6. STEAM and STEM kits
Brinkman says STEAM and STEM kits for kids and adults were a huge emerging trend at the end of last year, and so this is only more of what they’re diving into this year. It’s a great way to get the younger ones involved and active in any problem-solving task or, as for the older crowd, it activates some nostalgia.
7. Sports and outdoor activities
Brinkman and Stanback single out sports as one of the hobbies people are taking on more and more. People love pickleball, but badminton is also carving out its turf, according to Stanback and a Pinterest report.”It’s not just about the racket; it’s about the outfit and the aesthetic,” insists Stanback.
8. Entrepreneurship
This is indeed the era of entrepreneurship, where many decide to start hot enterprises or side jobs. Flexibility, following one’s passion, and the pursuit of financial independence are the driving forces behind such spirit. Putting their passion into innovative ideas and a brilliant mindset of entrepreneurship is shaping the future movement of business for economic growth.
“Choosing to pursue entrepreneurship and follow my passion was the most important decision of my life. It’s not about money; it’s about creating a way of life in line with what I believe in. As a dancer, I am more on fulfillment and creativity extension, using technology to connect and make an impact. It feels empowering and liberating to take my future into my own hands and chase what I love,” says Aara Kumbhani, a social media influencer and entrepreneur.
How Gen Z Is Shaping the Future Through Their Hobbies
This generation symbolizes the mainstream of all-time passions manifested in values, ideas and experiences unique to everyone. And since technology is growing in the future with society, Gen Z hobbies may end up humble but successful changes in lifestyle for future generations.
